Mailbag! RESTORE Lung Health (Ex-Smokers)

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted November 23, 2021

I finally quit smoking a few years ago, and I was wondering if there was a way to help clear out my lungs.

–Simon from Boise, ID

First of all, let me say congratulations!

Early in my career, I worked with heroin addicts who told me it was easier to stop heroin than to stop smoking cigarettes.

You’ve taken a HUGE step towards a better, longer life!

The good news about the lungs is that they are self-cleaning. And they started cleaning out the junk the day of your last cigarette.

There have been some studies which show that lungs can actually repair damaged tissue if given the right circumstances.

Here are some tips for strengthening the lungs.

· Exercise. The part of the lungs that is exposed to the outside world is covered with a mucus barrier. The lining of the lungs gets exposed to outside air from the elements you breathe in, but it’s protected by a barrier of mucus. When you breathe heavy, this barrier helps to move mucus out of your lungs, carrying with it the crud that’s accumulated. As a bonus, exercising brings in more oxygen and removing toxins through the blood. It doesn’t have to be complicated… even just going on a walk will help a lot.

· Green tea. This delicious beverage is loaded with antioxidants that can help protect the lungs. I drink it as often as I can.

· N-acetyl cystine (NAC). This is an amino acid that is good for the lungs. It helps break up some of that mucus in them, making it easier to remove the junk. It can be found at just about any health store.

· Eat well. Eating foods that are high in nutrients can go a long way, as can taking a quality multivitamin to fill in the gaps.

· Herbs. There are many herbs that are great for the lungs, but the one I like the best is licorice. It’s been traditionally used as an expectorant, which helps scrub out lung irritations. A word of caution: licorice can increase blood pressure in certain people. If you have a history of high blood pressure, then consider using deglycerized licorice (or DGL) instead. Always consult with your doctor first.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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