Deriving these nutrients through what you actually eat is most effective. Dietary supplements will not provide nearly as much benefit. Beta carotene is found in dark green, orange, red, and deep yellow fruits and vegetables. Beta carotene offers little protection for those that are still smoking though. Foods high in selenium include seafood, organ meats, lean meats, poultry, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains.
Selenium offers strong protection for smokers.
Avoid pollutants, which can cause further damage and tissue loss to your already vulnerable lungs. Hold your breath and breathe deeply frequently, which allows your blood to take in more oxygen. By doing this though, make sure you are in an environment with clean air. If the air has many pollutants, this will actually cause you to take in increased impurities, which can cause more harm than good. The diaphragm is the muscle between your rib cage and abdomen.