The Ins and Outs of Lung Detoxing: Can You Cleanse Your Lungs?

Thanks to social media, lung detoxifying teas and supplements are rapidly growing in popularity, but many people question whether they’re worth the hype — spoiler: They’re not. On the contrary, most of these products aren’t backed by any scientific research to support their marketed purpose as a “lung detox” product.

But don’t let this discourage you. On a more positive note, our lungs are built to repair and cleanse themselves, and they work hard to filter toxins from our bodies. Thankfully, you can make their job easier by maintaining healthy lungs — no special teas, supplements or essential oils required..

Avoiding Air Pollutants

One way to support your lung health is by reducing your exposure to pollutants like smog, smoke and other airborne toxins.

And one of the most impactful ways to do so is by not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke. Smoking cigarettes and cigars leads to lasting lung damage, sometimes even leading to emphysema, chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The good news is, the earlier you quit, the greater your chance of repairing damaged lung tissue to help your lungs heal. It’s never too early to stop smoking.

Strengthening Your Lung Function

Many variables can cause low lung capacity, including obesity, pregnancy, vitamin D deficiency, chronic lung diseases and a lack of physical activity. Breathing exercises are great to help strengthen your lung function and support your lung health, making it easier to get the oxygen you need.

Like breathing exercises, physical exercise benefits lung health, too. Even if you start small with a short, moderate intensity aerobic activity, such as walking, your lungs will benefit.

Foods to Support Your Lung Health

Another way you can help cleanse your lungs is through the foods you eat. Foods rich in antioxidants, like leafy greens, beets, berries, apples and tomatoes, have been shown to optimize oxygen intake and support healthy lungs. Maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet and limiting fatty and overly processed foods is a great way to ensure your lungs are getting the help they need.

And while we can’t recommend herbals teas that make claims to detoxify your body, there is something to be said about sipping a mug of warm tea when you’re feeling under the weather. Green teas are especially rich in antioxidants to support your whole health, and its benefits are backed by science.

Helping You Breathe Easier

Detoxing your lungs isn’t a new trend; simply put, it only requires making healthier physical and environmental choices daily to support your lungs. If you’re looking for help on your journey to better lung health, our trusted pulmonary specialists will be by your side every step of the way. You deserve to feel whole.