20 Best Foods for Lungs Lung health is very important. However, certain factors such as cigarette smoke, environmental pollution and inflammatory foods can adversely affect the lungs. In addition, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis significantly affect life. Research has shown that certain foods protect the lungs, reducing both lung damage and disease symptoms. A few nutrients and foods have been found to be particularly beneficial for lung function. They are mentioned below. Beetroot and Its Leaves: Black beetroot and its green leaves contain compounds that improve lung function. Nitrates found in them relaxes the blood vessels, lowers blood pressure and improves oxygen uptake. It increases physical performance. Useful for people with lung problems such as COPD and pulmonary hypertension (which causes high blood pressure in the lungs). Besides, beetroot leaves contain magnesium, pot...