Breathe Easier

Like heating and air conditioning, breathing is one of those things we take for granted when it's working. The trouble is, the body's main ventilation system has an "out of order" sign on it for a huge number of people. In fact, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) -- the umbrella name for chronic bronchitis and emphysema -- is currently the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and Canada.

Smoking is the prime risk factor for COPD, but plenty of nonsmokers get it, too. Yes, secondhand smoke and other lung irritants like pollution jack up your susceptibility. But the big news is that what you put on your plate can inflate your risk -- or let the air out.

The same stuff that makes your waistline and heart disease risk balloon does the same thing for your chances of getting COPD -- specifically, eating a typical Western diet of refined grains, cured and red meats, desserts, and fatty foods like french fries and nachos. Nasty nitrites found in processed meats, along with the high glycemic load of refined grains, desserts, and sweets, may inflame your breathing apparatus and ultimately damage it. But generous portions of fruit, veggies, fish, and whole grains may help bring you a breath of fresh air.

Another way to keep your breathing apparatus healthy: Get enough vitamin D. This vitamin may be able to help put out the fire of inflammation that leads to chronic lung disease. How much is enough? 1,000 international units every day if you're under age 60; 1,200 if you're older than that.