Lungs

Description

The Lungs are organs of the Respiratory System that allow respiration (breathing of air) to occur - Gas exchange occurs in the Lungs' Alveoli (air sacs).  The Lungs are connected to the Bronchial Tubes that are in turn connected to the Trachea.  The Lungs are also a minor component of the Excretory System - Carbon Dioxide and some excess Water and Alcohol are excreted from the body via the Lungs.

Alkaloids

 Capsaicin may help to “thin” the Mucous in the Lungs. 

Amino Acids

 Cysteine (especially the N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) form of Cysteine) may help to maintain healthy Lung function and may protect against the development of many ailments of the Lungs.  ^[1]

 Taurine may protect the Lungs from the toxic effects of exposure to environmental Ozone.  ^[2]

Carbohydrates

 Heparin may concentrate in the tissues of the Lungs. 

Carotenoids

 Alpha-Carotene may improve the function of the Lungs.  ^[3]

 Beta-Carotene may concentrate in the Lungs and may strengthen the Mucous Membranes of the Lungs.  ^[4]

 Lycopene may improve the function of the Lungs.  ^[5]

Electromagnetic Radiation

 Atmospheric Ions - Negative may improve the function of the Lungs (by increasing the secretory performance of the Mucosa and increasing the movement of Cilia in the Respiratory Passages). 

Lipids

 Omega-3 Fatty Acids may improve the function of the Lungs:  ^[6]

 Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA) may facilitate the transfer of Oxygen from air in the Lungs through the Alveoli. 

 Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) may improve the function of the Lungs.  ^[7]

 Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) may improve the function of the Lungs.  ^[8]

 Phosphatidylcholine may counteract some of the damage inflicted on the Lungs by Tobacco smoking. 

Minerals

 Magnesium may improve the function of the Lungs:  ^[9]

 One human study has demonstrated that subjects who consumed at least 380 mg of Magnesium per day exhibit superior Lung function compared to those consuming less than 380 mg of Magnesium per day regardless of whether the subjects smoked or not.