Every little bit counts for those suffering from low blood oxygen levels due to lung disease.
Increasing one’s oxygen intake in any way possible seems like a good idea.
If your blood oxygen level is low and you’re finding it difficult to breathe, try these five natural tactics for increasing the amount of oxygen your body absorbs.
1. When the weather allows, open your windows
Access to fresh air is essential for breathing more easily. However, remember it’s important to monitor your local air quality.
If you live in an urban area and can’t open the place up because of smog, consider investing in an indoor air filtration system or items that purify air at home naturally.
But Choose electronic air purifiers carefully—many of them produce lung-irritating ozone.
2. Grow green things
Introducing live plants into your home will increase available indoor oxygen. Ferns are a great option for extra oxygen production in the home.
They are relatively easy to keep alive and don’t require a lot of sunshine.
3. Exercise
Check with your doctor about the type and amount of exercise you should be doing each day. As your breathing rate and depth increase, your lungs absorb more oxygen, which means you’ll feel better.
4. Practice mindfulness
Begin a daily meditation or prayer routine that emphasizes deep breathing. Five to ten minutes of relaxed and focused breathing per day can improve your oxygen intake and reduce stress.
5. Eat fresh, iron-rich foods
Your diet can, to some extent, influence your blood’s ability to absorb oxygen. Certain foods can help improve your oxygen levels in the blood.
Focus on iron-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and green leafy vegetables. These dietary choices can correct an iron deficiency, which could increase your body’s ability to process oxygen and make you feel more energetic.
Stock up on green vegetables like kale, broccoli, and celery.
Christine Kingsley, APRN is the Health and Wellness Director at the Lung Institute where she focuses on providing helpful online resources for people looking for information on various lung diseases, breathing exercises, and healthy lifestyle choices. She advocates for holistic care that involves working with your doctor to explore all options including traditional and alternative care while focusing on diet and exercise as proactive measures.
