Smoking

According to Verywell Health, tobacco smoke contains numerous toxic chemicals that can damage the lining of the airways and internal lung structures when inhaled. Prolonged smoking increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and various other respiratory diseases. Some individuals smoke immediately after waking and multiple times throughout the day, leading to constant lung exposure to tobacco smoke.

Not drinking water after waking up

After a night's sleep, the body loses water through breathing, potentially drying out the respiratory tract lining. If one continues to not drink water in the morning, mucus in the airways can thicken, hindering the expulsion of phlegm and dust. Drinking one glass of water after waking helps replenish lost fluids and maintains humidity, supporting the respiratory system's self-cleaning mechanism.

Drinking one glass of water after waking up is good for lung health. Illustration: Ngoc Pham

Regularly skipping breakfast

Breakfast provides energy and protein for the body to sustain activities after a night's rest. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles require energy for continuous inhaling and exhaling. When the body experiences prolonged nutritional deficiency, muscle strength can decline, making respiration less efficient, especially in older adults or those with respiratory illnesses.

A balanced breakfast should supply sufficient energy, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. One can combine protein sources like eggs, milk, fish, or tofu with carbohydrates, vegetables, and fruits.

Exercising in polluted air

According to Times of India, breathing rate increases during exercise, leading to a greater volume of air entering the lungs than usual. If one exercises outdoors when air quality is poor, the body may inhale more fine dust and pollutants. These particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, causing irritation, coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Regular exposure to high pollution levels can increase airway inflammation, affecting lung function. Individuals with asthma or chronic lung disease are also more prone to experiencing symptoms.

Everyone should check air quality before exercising. When pollution levels are high, exercisers should reduce intensity, shorten workout duration, or move their workouts indoors.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)