[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

Dr. Scott Olson, ND

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

Mental Health Linked to 30% FASTER Aging [6-Step FIX]

Your mind and body are more connected than you might realize—and a groundbreaking new study proves just how profound that connection really is. In fact, it’s this mind-body link that helps explain why battling depression can put you on the fast track to physical decline. Depression is the most common mental health condition worldwide. We’ve...

Read This

The Air You Breathe Is Silently Stealing Your Memory

You already know that air pollution damages your lungs. Chances are you’ve heard it can also harm your heart. And I bet you won’t be surprised when I tell you it claims millions of lives annually. But now, alarming new research suggests polluted air might also damage your brain. This study found that long-term exposure...

Read This

Get Intermittent Fasting Benefits Without Going Hungry

Intermittent fasting, which involves cycling between eating and fasting periods, is effective. There’s plenty of evidence for that. It’s not just weight loss, either. Intermittent fasting has significant benefits for metabolic health. However, many people find fasting difficult to stick to—and others can’t do it at all due to medical issues—so they miss out on...

Read This

Just Diagnosed with Hypertension? —6 Things to Do Next

You’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure—now what? First, take a breath. You’re not alone—over 30 percent of adults worldwide have hypertension. That makes it one of the most common health issues… and a top cause of preventable deaths. The good news is that, unlike some conditions that can leave you feeling helpless, high blood...

Read This

Brain Games Are USELESS—Do These 5 Things Instead

I’ve seen a lot of lists lately claiming to have the secrets that keep your brain from turning into mush as you age. They typically advise activities such as doing crosswords, learning Spanish, or taking up the accordion. Challenging your mind with new learning experiences is definitely a great way to keep your brain engaged...

Read This

This $5 Fix REVERSES Cellular Aging in Just 6 Months

You take your vitamins, eat your vegetables, and feel healthy—so your nutrition is covered… right? Well, new research suggests that even health-conscious older adults may be missing crucial nutrients that keep their cells functioning like those of younger people. The trouble is that as we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients from...

Read This

Mailbag: Doctors Get Bone Health WRONG—Here's What Really Works

“Thank you so much for answering this. With millions of women who are seniors over 70 facing a diagnosis of osteoporosis, this is my question. What can we do naturally to help improve our bone density, especially in the spine lumber 1 and 2? Also, how do we help improve bone density in the femur...

Read This

Critical Brain Nutrient Missing In 9 Out of 10 American Diets

You’ve probably heard plenty about brain-boosting omega-3s, antioxidants, and B vitamins. But there’s another nutrient that’s just as critical for your cognitive health. However, it’s been flying under the radar… until now. Mounting evidence suggests this overlooked compound could be key to protecting your brain and enhancing memory. It may even reduce your risk of...

Read This

"Miracle Berry" Supercharges Your Microbiome

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and granddads who’ve shared their wisdom, strength, and love through the years. Thank you for teaching us that the best medicine is laughter, love, and a father’s caring heart. Want to upgrade your health but don’t want complicated diets or expensive supplements? Science just revealed a delicious way...

Read This

This "Healthy" Sweetener is Sabotaging Your Weight Loss

Everyone knows that a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. But what if the “diet” products you’re using to cut calories make you hungrier, so you eat more? Well, a shocking new study suggests that a popular artificial sweetener is secretly sabotaging your weight loss efforts. Let’s dig into...

Read This