Lungs work continuously to bring oxygen into the body and expel carbon dioxide. However, certain evening habits can irritate airways, affecting respiratory function and the body's recovery process during sleep.

Avoid alcohol consumption

According to Times of India, alcohol impairs the respiratory tract's self-cleaning mechanism, allowing mucus, dust, and bacteria to accumulate in the lungs. This increases the risk of bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses. Alcoholic beverages also heighten the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When stomach acid or fluid flows back into the throat, especially while lying down to sleep, it can irritate the airways, causing persistent coughing, hoarseness, wheezing, and exacerbating respiratory conditions like asthma.

Frequent alcohol consumption also weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to respiratory infections and slowing recovery after illness.

Do not overeat before bed

Eating too much or eating too close to bedtime not only overloads the digestive system but also increases the risk of gastroesophageal reflux. Stomach acid or fluid refluxing into the throat during sleep can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to nighttime coughing, hoarseness, and wheezing. For individuals with asthma or chronic lung disease, this condition can trigger or worsen symptoms.

According to Eating Well, people should eat a moderate dinner, prioritizing healthy foods, limiting fried items, and finishing their meal about two to three hours before sleep.

Eating dinner about two to three hours before bed is beneficial for lung health. Photo: Bui Thuy

Eating dinner about two to three hours before bed is beneficial for lung health. Photo: Bui Thuy

Limit frequent late nights

Sleep is when the body recovers and regulates many important functions, including the immune system. Prolonged late nights or insufficient sleep can impair the body's ability to fight off bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory diseases.

Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to increased inflammatory responses in the body. This can make individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease more prone to experiencing symptoms.

Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night and avoid frequent late nights to support respiratory and overall health.

By Le Nguyen (Compiled)