Researchers have found that eating more fruit could help keep your lungs healthy and working effectively, especially in the face of air pollution. A study presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress showed that a healthy, plant-rich diet can improve lung function and reduce the impact of pollution. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds found in fruit are believed to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation caused by fine particles, ultimately leading to better lung health.

The study analyzed data from 200,000 people and found that women who consumed four or more portions of fruit a day had smaller reductions in lung function associated with air pollution compared to those who consumed less fruit. This highlights the importance of promoting a healthy plant-based diet from a young age to not only prevent chronic diseases but also to reduce the carbon footprint of meat-rich diets. With nearly 90 percent of the world's population breathing unhealthy air, incorporating more fruit into one's diet could be a simple yet effective way to protect lung health.