
[STUDY] Breathe Better with PLANT POWER
It boggles my mind that molecules in plants can CHANGE the way our bodies function.
This effect is most obvious with drugs.
The molecules in the opium plant, for example, activate opioid receptors in our brain and body, which block our perception of pain.
Similarly, molecules in the cannabis plant activate cannabinoid receptors in our bodies, which can reduce pain and help us relax, sleep better, fight depression, and more.
But this plant power situation gets even WILDER when you learn molecules in certain common VEGETABLES can BOOST lung function and fight infection.
Our lungs contain aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AHRs). These receptors maintain a barrier that ALLOWS oxygen to enter the bloodstream while BLOCKING viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
But sometimes a lung infection develops anyway. And when that happens this protective barrier breaks down.
That’s where those plant molecules come in.
New research, published in the journal Nature, reveals that molecules found in plain old produce can IMPROVE lung function.
The new study found that molecules in the cruciferous vegetable family bind to the AHRs and instruct them to NOT break down.
These potent molecules, found in common veggies, are…
- Indole-3-acetonitrile
- Indole-3-carbinole (I3C)
- 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), and
- Indolo (3,4)bicarbazole.
And I’m sure you’ll agree that as we enter into cold and flu season that extra protection is something we could ALL use right now.
To boost your levels of all four nutrients, eat more cruciferous veggies—including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale. And for an even bigger boost supplements are also available.
But don’t stop there. Breathe even better with these other lung-supporting supplements…
- Carotenoids and other phytonutrients support lung health while reducing oxidant damage. Fruits, vegetables, and (my favorite) superfood supplement blends are packed with lung-friendly phytonutrients.
- Magnesium deficiency is common in folks with asthma. I suggest 400–800 milligrams of absorbable magnesium (such as magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, or a magnesium amino acid chelate) to boost your levels for better breathing.
- Probiotics (healthy gut bacteria) are VITAL for overall health and the health of your immune system. Studies show probiotic supplements can reduce airway inflammation, prevent wheezing, and block asthma incidents.
- Natural anti-inflammatories can help ease airway inflammation, reducing breathing problems. Fight back against breathing difficulties with omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, Boswellia, and an anti-inflammatory diet.
As always, check with your doctor BEFORE starting any new supplements.
P.S. The REAL cause of your breathing problems. (It’s NOT smoking!)
Source:
Major, J., et al. “Endothelial AHR activity prevents lung barrier disruption in viral infection.” Nature (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06287-y

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.
View More Free Articles
Mailbag: 7 Natural Allergy Fighters That Won't Leave You Drowsy
“I have a really bad allergy and take an antihistamine every 3rd day because they are bad for your health. I really need to take one a day but I suffer so I will not overdo it. Is there anything out there that is natural that really works? Thank you,” Sneezy and Allergic Hi Sneezy, It’s...
Eat 23 of These Daily to SLASH Heart Risk [DELICIOUS!]
When it comes to heart health, we’re constantly told what we need to cut out. You know the drill—ditch the salt, dump the sugar, and avoid the processed foods. But what if I told you that adding something to your diet could be just as effective for protecting your heart? A comprehensive new scientific analysis...
"Yellow Devil" Fruit CRUSHES Blood Pressure Better Than Meds
I have a confession to make. I hate bananas. Even the smell of them causes my stomach to flip. The funny thing is that I have an uncle and a daughter who are the same—so I wonder if it’s genetic. But even though I consider them the yellow devil of the fruit world, I recommend...
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...
The Stroke-Boosting Threat Lurking in YOUR Arteries
We want to take a moment on this Memorial Day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on in the country they helped preserve. I’ve warned you...
20-Minute AM Hack Will Revolutionize How You Wake Up
If you feel like you’re in a fog for the first hour after your alarm goes off, you’re not alone. Mornings can be rough. That groggy, disoriented feeling isn’t just annoying—it’s a real physiological phenomenon called “sleep inertia.” And it can drag on for up to two hours after waking, even if you’ve had a...