Lungs are self-cleaning organs that will heal themselves when exposure to pollutants stops.

This article will explain the steps to support healthy lungs and recover from minor lung injury.

Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

After Smoking, Will a Lung Detox Work?

A man trail running with his dog in Big Sky.

Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

Practicing good habits and behaviors that boost your lung health can benefit people who have a history of smoking.

However, adopting the following behaviors will help improve your lung health.

Quit Smoking

Smoking cigarettes adversely affects every organ in the body,especially the lungs.

Brian Bezack, DO

It increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

If you want to make your lungs healthier, the first thing to do isstop smoking.

It can add years to your life.

Get Moving

Regular exercise makes your lungs stronger.

As your endurance improves, youre less likely to get short of breath during physical activity.

Change Your Diet

No specific diet can detox your lungs, but somefoods may support healthy lungfunction.

Some nutrients can help you breathe easier and may even reduceasthma symptoms.

you’ve got the option to check your area’s air quality index (AQI) atwww.airnow.gov.

Some circumstances can worsen indoor and outdoor air pollution.

They include:

It may be difficult to avoid being outside when outdoor air quality is bad.

However, you’re free to minimize exposure.

Foods to Avoid for Lung Health

Some foods may adversely impact lung health.

For instance, your body requires more oxygen to break down carbohydrates compared to fats.

Some people may have better lung function if their diet is lower in carbohydrates.

Lungs are self-cleaning organs that heal themselves when exposure to pollutants stops.

The moment you quit smoking, your body and lungs begin the process of recovery.

American Lung Association.Can you detox your lungs?

American Cancer Society.Health benefits of quitting smoking over time.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Cigarette smoking.

American Lung Association.Exercise and lung health.

American Lung Association.Asthma and nutrition: how food affects your lungs.

American Lung Association.Weather and your lungs.

American Lung Association.Clean air at home.

American Lung Association.Protecting your lungs.