If you suffer from allergies, asthma, nasal polyps, or cold and flu, chances are you’ve experienced issues with breathing at one point or another. There are many ways to help treat and medicate breathing issues, whether that be with an air purifier, puffers, Flonase, Stiolto, Spiriva, Allegra, Claritin, Dupixent, or in more serious cases, oxygen therapy. But did you know that there are certain foods and changes you can make to your diet that will help you with breathing issues? Based on what you eat, different nutrients make you produce more carbon dioxide for the amount of oxygen used, and others make you produce less. Read on to see what foods and nutrients you should incorporate into your diet to help with your breathing:

1. Whole grains
Whole grains are packed with important vitamins and nutrients like vitamin E, fatty acids, selenium, and fiber that are all great for lung health and have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid refined grains and instead reach for whole-wheat bread, quinoa, oats, barley, and other whole grain products.

2. Garlic
Garlic is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to the compound known as allicin. What’s more, garlic has been shown to improve lung function by decreasing oxidative stress. These properties make them a healthy additive for a great boost of flavor to your meals.

3. Leafy greens
Spinach, kale, collards, romaine, and broccoli are great sources of the antioxidant carotenoids. Eating a balanced diet with a good amount of leafy greens is shown to reduce risk of lung cancer and will boost healthy breathing and lung function.

4. Sources of protein
Good sources of protein include most meats, nut butter, milk, eggs, fish, and beans. Getting enough protein supports the maintenance of strong respiratory muscles as well as strengthening respiratory cells, thanks to proteins assistance in repairing cells and making new ones.

5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the biggest source of lycopene—an antioxidant known to improve lung health. Tomatoes have been shown to reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function. Try adding sliced tomatoes to your sandwiches or chop them up and add to a fresh salad.

6. Lots of fluids
I know what you’re thinking—water isn’t food! But, it is an important enough factor in helping you breathe, so it needed a place on this list. Staying hydrated is essential to keeping mucus thin for easier removal, thus keeping your airways clear and unblocked. Spread out drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day, and keep in mind that many caffeine-free beverages and a variety of foods contain a substantial amount of water as well.