If we take good care of our lungs, they can last a lifetime. The lungs are very durable if they are not attacked from the outside. With a few exceptions, our lungs do not get into trouble unless we get them into trouble. Here are some things everyone should do to keep the lungs healthy as with age.

Don’t smoke anything

Smoking is the worst thing that can be done to your lungs on a regular basis. There is not any safe threshold when it comes to smoking. The more you smoke, the greater is your risk of lung cancer and COPD, which contains chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In addition smoke is very harmful and there is mounting evidence that just being in an environment where people have smoked or even third hand smoke is very dangerous. It is not enough to quit only cigarettes. Marijuana, pipes or cigars can harm your lungs the same way.

Fight for clean air

More than 155 million people still live in areas where air pollution is a threat to health. Air pollution can not only make diseases like asthma and COPD worse, but it can also kill people. You can make a difference by opposing efforts to cut regulation and supporting clean air laws. On the individual level you should cut use of electricity, avoid burning trash or wood and drive less.

Do more workouts

Exercise in itself won’t stronger your lungs but it will help to get more out of them. The better your cardio respiratory fitness is, the easier it will be for your lungs to supply your heart and muscles with oxygen. Regular workouts are particularly important if you have chronic lung disease. Your lungs need all the help they could get. If your asthma symptoms are triggered by cold air, use a scarf or mask your face to warm the air before it gets to your lungs

Beware of outdoor air pollution

Especially in the summer in some areas ozone and other pollutants can make exercising or even spending time outdoors an unhealthy proposition. People with a lung problem are particularly sensitive to air pollution.

Improve indoor air

Air pollution is not only an outdoor problem. There are a lot of indoor sources, including wood burning stoves, fireplaces, mold, pet dander, construction materials and even some candles and air fresheners. A three pronged approach is recommended: eliminating of sources, improving of ventilation and using of air cleaners. Air cleaners can remove particulate matter, but they won’t impact gases.

Eat healthy diet

There is evidence that foods rich in antioxidant are good for the lungs. A 2011 study found that people who consumed the most cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, kale, broccoli, bok choy, cabbage and others had almost half the risk of lung cancer compared to people who consumed the least. All these nice, leafy green vegetables with lots of antioxidants do seem to have a huge protective effect.

Protect yourself while working

Many jobs from construction work to styling hair can put your lungs at risk. Potential culprits include paint fumes, dust, particles and diesel exhaust, among others. If your boss provides protective equipment, you should definitely wear it. If not contact your union representative or any state or local agency with the same function as Health Administration.

Check level of radon

Radon- a naturally occurring radioactive gas is produced in the ground by the breakdown of uranium. It typically gets into a house through cracks in the walls and foundation. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second risk factor of the disease after smoking. Get your house tested. There are no known safe levels of radon, so the lower it is the better for your lungs.

Stick to safe products

Many at home activities such as cleaning, hobbies, home improvement could expose your lungs to harmful gases or particles. Protect yourself by choosing safer products, working in a well ventilated area and always use a dust mask. Avoid paints based on oil, which release volatile organic compounds, instead choose water based paints. Cleaning products can contain harmful chemicals too, like ammonia and bleach. Be sure to read labels before you buy them.