A breath of Fresh Air
What would you say is the most important aspect of yourself that you value the most? Would you say it was regarding your health and if so, what specifically would you say it was? Although I am sure you could come up with a thousand answers, I am sure you would agree that a healthy pair of lungs is a top priority.
You see, without oxygen the human body itself cannot sustain life. Without adequate amounts of oxygen, which is a primary and vital resource for the entire body, the organs become compromised and begin to deteriorate.
Our very existence on this earth depends daily on receiving a sufficient and a continuous flow of fresh, clean air into our lungs, into our respiratory system.
Believe it or not the effectiveness of our lungs has a direct influence on other organs and how they perform. Try to visualize it like a kind of domino effect. Cells that do not receive enough oxygen do not grow nor multiply correctly because of poor cellular respiration conditions. They will eventually die or may lead down an alternative pathological pathway where life threatening diseases such as cancer are activated.
Why Does This Happen?
Simply put, the cell structure becomes weakened and damaged by free radical elements that attack the cell membrane. Toxins and other substances are then freely allowed to enter into the energy-producing mitochondria and the cell nucleus, affecting the cell’s ability to reproduce and carry out its functions.
- One of the major functions of the respiratory system is as an organ of detoxification. Every breath you inhale delivers vital oxygen to much needed areas of your body and every breath you exhale eliminates carbon dioxide as well as other toxins. The nose on your face is the first place that potentially toxic substances are identified via the sense of smell in the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is also responsible for trapping airborne germs in the mucous membranes and filtering them out.
- Remember as the air enters into the body either through the nasal cavity or the mouth, the lungs fill up with whatever quality of air surrounds you. That is why we must be consciously aware of the air quality and the environmental conditions around us.
- Another important point is that as the air passes through the respiratory system, the blood picks up oxygen and carries it to cells throughout the body. This oxygen is required for our voluntary and involuntary systems to begin moving. Just take a look at all the systems that are affected by the lungs ability to transport and deliver air molecules to their destination. They include the cardiovascular system, the digestive system, the endocrine system, immune system, integumentary system, lymphatic system, nervous system, reproductive system, skeletal and muscular system and the urinary system.
More Smog. More Problems.
Respiratory conditions are on the rise as smog, pollution, smoke, and pesticides increase in the atmosphere, showing us that more antioxidant protection is necessary to maintain the integrity of the intricate working mechanisms of the cell structure inside and out. Premature aging, tough and wrinkled skin are also visible signs of cellular damage
An ounce of prevention is a worthwhile investment in order to keep your lungs and respiratory system working at peak performance.
Here Are a List of Hints To Help You Maximize Your Breathing Capacity
- Eat plenty of whole fresh fruit and vegetables, preferably raw or juiced. They are an excellent source of antioxidants in their natural wholesome state.
- Avoid mucous forming foods such as milk, cheese and cottage cheese and other dairy products, refined sugars, breads containing yeast, white flour, and white pasta. These foods can eventually produce allergic reactions that produce phlegm and congest and restrict the lungs.
- Wash all Fruits and Vegetables thoroughly to eliminate residues of herbicides or pesticides.
- If you smoke, quit. Did you know that for every cigarette you smoke, you lose 3 minutes off of your life? Instead of becoming discouraged, check with your local health food store to find a natural remedy to help you overcome the craving and to help you quit smoking for good.
- Avoid second hand smoke. Second hand smoke can just be as bad as smoking.
- Get onto an antioxidant program to help repair and rebuild tissue in your lungs and improve your overall immunity and circulation.
- Ensure you have proper ventilation in your home, car and office to provide you with a fresh flow of clean air.
- Exercise. This is an old fashioned but still effective solution to poor breathing. Exercising is a great way to deliver new oxygen to your organs
- Try to effectively manage your stress levels. If you are continuously stressed, your breathing and lungs will be tense.
- Once a year or more it is recommended to do a spring cleansing and detoxify your lungs using power antioxidants. NAC, (gluthathione), milk thistle, burdock root, high dosages of vitamin C, turmeric, green tea, clove, ginger, parsley, peppermint, and rosemary are some of the excellent choices to consider.
Please check with a qualified health care professional who can help you choose the best program for your needs.