Everyone knows smokers are at a much higher risk of getting cancer, various forms of lung disease and emphysema, which is usually why most people quit.
However, if mere death and the end of your mortal experience isn’t enough of a deterrent for you, then there are always the more superficial aspects – what about the promise of lines across your face resembling the San Andreas fault, or a breath that seems to penetrate deep into every living cell in your body which acompanies the stale odour leeching from every pore along with the bleeding gums of Vitamin C deficiency and that lovely yellowing of your not so pearly whites?
Surely this will put an end to your smoking ways? Well, no – as with all things addictive, there are those of you that for whatever reason cannot put the cancer sticks down. For some people, cigarettes are extremely addictive and its not surprising because cigarettes are manufactured to target the nicotinic receptors we have in our brain- yes, we actually have what is called nicotinic receptors- big business has yet again made an outstanding product of addiction targeting human neurological stimulus that kills us- that’s all! Thanks guys- hope those holidays in the Bahamas are serving you well.
It’s such a pity that an early death from smoking related illness is the probable outcome for a smoker. It is this stimulation of nicotinic receptors that makes it very difficult for some people to stop smoking. If you’re one of those people that can’t put down the ciggies, then at least try to reduce your risks by eating a diet rich in foods that assist in protecting your lungs, helping to clear and expand your airways.
Be aware that these foods will not fully clear your lungs of all the toxins you inhale from cigarettes – the carcinogenic risks of smoking those chemical cocktails are catastrophic to your health. These foods will merely help rid your lungs of some toxins, assisting to at least reduce your risk for disease.
Beta-cryptoxanthin
Spices containing this strong antioxidant will help protect the lungs. Paprika, Cinnamon, Chilli powder, Oregano. This is why the use of a variety of spices in your salads and meals is not only a great way to totally transform your basic meals into something wonderful, but spices are exceptional healers.
Selenium
Selenium is another powerful antioxidant which can be found in eggs, Brazil nuts and various types of fish, such as: Tuna, Cod, Salmon. Selenium is a mineral and one of the staple supplements I choose to take due to the cancer preventative properties it has been scientifically proven to have.
Garlic
Garlic has several anticancer properties. A study completed the Washington University found that garlic is 100x stronger than the best pharmaceutical antibiotics on the market.
Ginger
Ginger is an extremely useful tool for clearing your body of toxins. You can drink it as a tea, or use it to add flavour to any of your meals. Ginger is a fabulous part of any detox programme.
Oranges
Oranges are an amazing source of vitamins. Plus they contain cryptoxanthin- that first antioxidant I mentioned earlier which been found to be quite effective against lung cancer
Nettle
I love Nettle tea, a herbal tea I have been drinking for well over 20 years, nettle is a blood purifier is loaded with iron and is a useful disinfectant and great at fighting infection.
Pine needle tea
This tea has been traditionally used to disinfect the mouth and throat, but can also be a helpful aid in lung health.
All the best in health!
Kylie McCarthy -Nutritionist
For appointments with Kylie please phone 02 4655 4666 or email kyliem@www.cabothealth.com.au
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