10 Ways to Fight Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder that disrupts normal functions of epithelial cells, the cells that line the passageways of many of our most important organs, including the lungs and respiratory system, liver, kidneys, and reproductive system. People with CF have a defective gene that impairs epithelial cell functions causing them to experience a buildup of sticky mucus inside the body, often leading to lung damage. This defect in turn affects how CF patients breathe, digest food, and absorb nutrients in the digestive tract. Because epithelial cells have many important roles inside the lungs, sweat glands of the skin and the digestive system, CF symptoms can occur throughout the body and become severe. CF is a serious, lifelong disease that needs to be properly managed throughout a patient’s life. Here are 10 ways to fight cystic fibrosis.
1. Omega-3 Diet
Adding a dose of omega-3 fatty acids to your diet is one of the best ways to increase your immune system and eliminate the lung infections that can be problematic for people suffering from cystic fibrosis. Omega-3s protect against excessive mucus production and reduces inflammation biomarkers, many of which can contribute to infection of the lungs. Fish are one of the best sources of omega-3s in large supply, even in the form of fish oil supplements.
2. Curcumin
Curcumin found in Turmeric is found to be helpful with Delta f508 mutation that is responsible for cystic fibrosis. Many animal studies on curcumin have also shown increased survival rates due to normalization of chloride transport in gut. You can give some turmeric to CF patient by mixing it with coconut oil or coconut or almond milk for enhanced absorption.
3. Ginseng
Ginseng is a natural remedy for many things because it has impressive antibacterial capabilities. Whether you want to add ginseng powder to your food, steep ginseng tea for your afternoon cup, or simply take ginseng supplements, these can all help to eliminate bacterial infections that attack the lungs in conjunction with cystic fibrosis.
4. Himalayan Salt
Change the cooking salt to Himalayan salt is an effective remedy which helps improve PFT or pulmonary function test results. You can easily replace table salt with Himalayan salt as well and also place Himalayan salt lamps around the room. If possible, patients should visit salt caves every few weeks. Drinking brine made from Himalayan salt and spring water can also clear breathing in cystic fibrosis patients. It’s very helpful to drink this brine daily before breakfast on an empty stomach.
5. Garlic and tea
These two have antibacterial activity against Klebsiella, as well as drug resistant strains of Saphylococci, Enterococci and Psedomonas aeruginosa.
6. Papaya
This exotic fruit has shown specific strength against Staphylococcus and Bacillus cereus strains of bacteria, which are both associated with the lungs. Eating papaya a few times a week can help to ward off any of those bacteria from developing in the respiratory tract.
7. Licorice
If you want a tasty way to keep your cystic fibrosis under control, you should try a licorice rope. The powerful organic compounds in licorice can actually reduce pulmonary inflammation, which means a much better chance of avoiding lung infections that can speed up the disorder.
8. Nasal saline rinse
Invest in a neti pot and use it daily to rinse out sinuses with warm salty water. Rinse out both nostrils while expelling out water from the throat.
9. Oats
This may seem simple, but some of the enzymes contained in oats can really help modify the metabolism and combat some of the chemical pathways of cystic fibrosis that can be so cyclical and destructive.
10. Deep breathing exercises
This therapy expands the lungs and strengthens lung function. You should do the deep breathing exercises for reducing mucus and keeping lungs clear. Jumping on trampoline or daily brisk walk of 15 minutes can help keep lungs clear as well.
The best ways to naturally manage cystic fibrosis include early diagnosis and care, dietary intervention to prevent deficiencies, help with proper lung function and breathing, and physical therapy and exercise. If you follow these tips, your lungs should be pretty healthy.