Healthy Lungs with Naturopathic Medicine

Submitted by adara on Thu, 11/17/2011 - 13:14

Can you feel the coming of winter in your lungs?

You’re not alone and here’s why… As the cool dry air rolls in, we need to pay special attention to our lungs. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Autumn is the Lung season. This makes perfect sense when you consider how vulnerable our lungs feel as we approach winter. Health conditions such as asthma, chronic cough, sinus problems, damage from smoking, and chronic respiratory tract infections need special care.

There are many factors that can harm our lungs. Pollution, chemicals and smoke are a few examples of common substances that weaken our lungs and increase susceptibility to infections, irritation and impaired function.

Naturopathic Medicine uses a variety of therapies that can be used to treat and prevent lung conditions. Nutrition and lifestyle play a huge role in regulating our immune system. This includes a balanced whole food diet, adequate sleep and regular exercise to ensure your body has the nutrients and energy it needs. In addition, Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture and botanical medicine are great ways to help strengthen lung function and the immune system.

5 Tips for Healthy Lungs:

  1. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes and citrus fruits are lung-loving foods that are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and protective compounds to protect your lungs.
  2. Avoid exposure to smoke, asbestos and smog/pollution, which will weaken and damage lung tissue.
  3. Drink green tea. This warm and comforting tea is packed with antioxidants and contains flavonoids to support immune function.
  4. Keep the skin on your apples. Apple skin contains vitamin E and other nutrients that can increase lung function and help improve breathing.
  5. Wear a scarf! It's essential to keep your neck warm and protected from wind, cold and rain.

This year, take care of your lungs and breathe easier with naturopathic medicine.

Sindy Shin, BSc, ND

Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Sindy Shin is co-founder of Adara Integrative Clinic in Toronto. She has a family practice with a special focus in women’s and pediatric health, digestive conditions, stress management and anxiety related concerns.