By now, we all know the importance of including healthy fats in our daily diet. Although many of us avoid consuming fats, experts recommend adding some good fats to our diet to carry out several vital functions in the body. Unlike the saturated fats (that leads to several chronic and lifestyle diseases), good fats help lower the bad cholesterol levels (LDL) in our body, prevent abnormal heart rhythm and manage blood pressure. One such good fat option is Omega-3 fatty acids. Naturally available in different food sources, omega 3 fats play a crucial role in the growth and proper functioning of the body, especially heart. It not only lowers cardiovascular risk but also reduces the risk of death due to heart disease. But did you know that this healthy fat is good for your lungs too?
Lung Health: Health Benefits Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Omega-3 Fats For Lungs:
An earlier study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, found that eating foods rich in omega-3 fats may lower the risk of asthma triggered by indoor air pollution (like cooking, dusting, smoking etc).
Another study, led by researchers at the Queen Mary University in London, stated that lack of proper nutrition and a balanced diet may increase the risk of asthma. Hence, they concluded that one must include more Omega-3 fats in your diet since childhood to prevent asthma. This study was published in the European Respiratory Journal.
Besides omega-3 fatty acid also has anti-inflammatory effects on our body that may further benefit people with chronic lung disease like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Hence, we say, one must include every essential nutrient to our daily diet for overall benefit.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids For Lungs: 5 Foods You Must Include In Your Diet:
Fatty Fish:
Fatty fish including salmon, mackerel, shrimp etc are deemed to be one of the best sources of omega-3 fats. Besides reducing the risk of asthma and other lung-related issues, fatty fish are also known to ease several heart-related problems.
Walnut:
Walnut is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that further help prevent lung inflammation. Touted to be a superfood, walnut is loaded with several healthy nutrients that can be good for your body's overall growth.
Rajma:
We give you another reason to enjoy rajma to the fullest. Alongside its high protein content, rajma (or kidney beans) are enriched with healthy fats and have multiple health benefits.
Chia Seeds:
With more and more people getting health conscious, chia seeds are coming into vogue. They are healthy, filling and can be used to whip up the yummy pudding for breakfast.
Flax Seeds:
Another super seed option, flax seeds are one of the healthiest food ingredients one can get. Besides healthy fats, these teardrop-sized seeds are a storehouse of fibre, protein, magnesium and more.
Include these food items in your daily diet and improve your lung health in the yummiest way possible.
(Note: The food suggestions are not part of the studies.)
About Somdatta SahaExplorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day.