India, Dec. 8 -- Pollution can hit some people harder. If persistent cough or other respiratory symptoms trouble you year after year due to poor Air Quality India (AQI), a proper diet with lung-cleansing foods may offer additional protection.

According to PubMed Central, exposure to atmospheric toxins increases the risk of respiratory disorders such as bronchitis and asthma. How do the fine particles or high AQI affect the lungs? Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5, penetrates deep into the small airways of the lungs. This can trigger inflammation, irritate lung tissue, and contribute to long-term lung disease, says the National Library of Medicine.

During smog season, your lungs are constantly exposed to harmful pollutants, which ca...