Lung Healing
after Smoking
By Peg Jordan, RN
The residues of cigarette smoke -- tar, nicotine, and other byproducts
of the action of carbon monoxide and assorted carcinogens on the
lung tissue -- can take a few years to clear completely. Of course,
it helps to avoid all second-hand smoke, which can be twice as
irritating to ex-smokers, and to live in a city with relatively
clean air.
It also helps to feed your
lungs a diet rich in antioxidants, lots of green leafy vegetables,
fresh fruits and whole grains, and to take a supplement with added
mixed carotenes, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium. Exercising
your lungs with moderate aerobic activity, at least 30 minutes
a day, is another good housecleaning activity. Picture them growing
healthier and pinker with every day you're smoke-free -- that's
the deep, down truth.