tea

Yes, it is true, wearing a mask maintains a barrier from pollens, pollutants, and pathogens in the air. This is good, but is there more we can do to support our respiratory and immune systems?

Indeed! And, in keeping it simple, it is about mucus. Mucus protects the epithelial cells that line many areas of our bodies, such as: respiratory and digestive tract, urogenital, audio and visual systems. These mucosal linings act as a sticky surface to help protect the body by collecting pathogens, such as fungi, bacteria and viruses. Most of the mucus is formed in our gut.

If you have any pulmonary disease or lung infection, this mucus production may over produce, referred to as mucus hypersecretion, to protect itself, fighting off infection and inflammation.  Over time, chronic and poor respiratory tract function results in weakening the respiratory muscles, the airways become obstructed, lung function decreases and risk of death increases.

To reduce the chances of mucus hypersecretion due to chronic or sudden respiratory illnesses, adjusting your food choices may make all the difference from lung damage, chronic health problems and life or death. To reduce mucus, stay away from foods such as:

• Dairy Foods: milk, cheese, ice cream, butter, yogurt, etc.
• Red Meats
• Breads, Baked Goods, and Desserts
• Cereals
• Pasta
• Corn
• Soy
• Chips and snacks
• Coffee and Sodas
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Bananas
• And, more.

More healthy information: Intestinal Health ~ A Practical Guide to Complete Abdominal Comfort http://amzn.to/2ckb2Mm

Then, there’s foods that do not create or reduce mucus formation, such as:

• Fish: Tuna, Salmon, Flounder, to name a few
• Pumpkin and Pumpkin Seeds
• Pineapple
• Greens: kale, broccoli, spinach, watercress, celery, cucumber, etc.
• Broths
• Olive Oil
• Herbal Teas
• Herbs such as: onion, garlic, chamomile, cayenne pepper, and ginger
• Pickles
• Lemon and Lime
• Honey

Make choices that keep you healthy!

Fast Health Tip & Recipe Videos: http://bit.ly/29C5dIx – SUBSCRIBE