Research shows that being overweight or underweight can impair lung function, which is why eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good lung health, Curran says. If youre overweight or underweight, you may tire more easily, have increased breathlessness or have difficulty with everyday tasks, she says, adding that, it may also increase your risk of getting infections.

Not to mention, food provides the body with energy and Curran says it takes more energy to breathe when you have a lung condition.

While theres no single food that can reduce your risk of lung disease, by following a healthy diet made up of the five main food groups, you can keep your lungs healthy. Curran recommends incorporating a wide variety of colourful vegetables, legumes and beans, fruits, grains such as breads, cereals, rice and pasta, and dairy products like milk, yoghurt and cheese into your daily diet.

One study published in the journal JAMA Oncology in October, 2019 found eating a diet high in fibre and yoghurt is associated with a reduced risk for lung cancer. While another study published in The BMJ in February 2015 linked eating a diet rich in grains and low in red and processed meat with a lower risk of chronic lung disease.

For people living with a lung condition such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Curran recommends getting in touch with a dietician or getting a referral from your GP as you may find it difficult to meet your nutritional needs.

As well as eating a varied and balanced diet, its important to drink adequate amounts of water, she adds. Curran says you should aim for at least 2 litres of water per day, unless you have been advised otherwise by your doctor.

Healthy eating doesnt have to be time-consuming either! Many people believe that eating well means slaving away in the kitchen all day but, according to Curran, thats not the case. Curran recommends opting for nutritious and easy-to-prepare snacks and meals that only need a few ingredients and take little to no time to whip up. Stuck on ideas? Why not try a veggie-packed frittata? Its super versatile, healthy and can be made with the leftovers in your fridge. Or healthy flatbread pizza with your favourite veggie toppings?

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesnt take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means its not personalised health advice and shouldnt be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.

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Eat well, breathe easier! The key to healthy lungs starts in your kitchen - Starts at 60