How to Support Respiratory Health Every Day

by Melissa Chichester

When asked the question, “what is the most natural thing humans do?,” you might automatically answer, “breathing.”

A human cannot live without oxygen or breathing – and after just five minutes of the brain not receiving oxygen, permanent brain damage can occur. Oxygen is critical to sustaining life and good health, and your respiratory system distributes it throughout your body. 

Supporting this essential system is just like any other facet of health. It takes being aware of your own personal habits, good nutrition, and a few extra steps to keep your lungs and airways strong.

What is the respiratory system?

Your respiratory system is the network of organs and tissues that help you breathe, including your lungs, blood vessels, trachea, nose, mouth, and sinuses. Besides breathing, your respiratory system is also what allows you to talk and smell. The respiratory system also delivers oxygen to cells and removes waste, such as carbon dioxide. 

How can I keep my respiratory system healthy?

Keeping mucus out of the lungs and airways is important for respiratory health. This can be achieved through several lifestyle choices. 

  • Avoid pollutants when you can. This includes secondhand smoke and chemicals. If you are exposed to pollutants for an extended period of time, wear a mask. For example, if you will be painting in a poorly ventilated area, wearing a mask can help. 
  • Don’t smoke. Smoking damages the respiratory system.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water.
  • Minimize exposure to air pollution. This includes during natural disasters and air pollution in congested cities if possible. 
  • Exercise if you are able. Physical activity keeps your lungs strong. 
  • Get regular checkups. A doctor will be able to listen to your lungs and determine if there are any issues. 
  • Wear protective gear at work if you are exposed to potential irritants. 

Supplements for respiratory support 

You might be surprised to know that some supplements do support respiratory health, such as Puritan’s Pride® Respiratory Support Formula + Vitamin C. It also supports antioxidant and immune health.*

This unique formula includes a surprising nutrient you may not have heard of before: quail egg powder.

Quail egg powder supports healthy sinus and nasal function, as well as a normal response to environmental irritants.*

Meanwhile, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and assists in maintaining a healthy immune system.* It plays an important role in the functioning of white blood cells, which are an essential part of the immune system and support upper respiratory health.*

Our supplement is perfect for any season, regardless of whether you’re spending more time indoors or outdoors.

Another supplement that supports upper respiratory health is Puritan’s Pride® Elderberry + Immune with Echinacea & Vitamin C.*

Elder is a flowering shrub that produces dark purple berries. Both the flowers and berries of the Elder plant have been used in traditional practices for its health properties.* Meanwhile, Echinacea purpurea produces purple, daisy-like flowers and has been used by Plains Indians for centuries. This formula also contains Vitamin C, which helps support upper respiratory health and immune health.*

Finally, the Puritan’s Pride® All Day Immune Ester C® Softgel provides 24-hour immune support and upper respiratory health support.* Ester-C® is a gentle, non-acidic form of Vitamin C that has been clinically studied and stays in your white blood cells for up to 24 hours, lasting longer than traditional Vitamin C.* This formula includes eight other essential vitamins, minerals, and herbs. Vitamin D, Vitamin A, and zinc further help maintain a healthy immune system.* 

Always discuss taking new supplements with your personal physician so you can get care based on your needs.