- Exchange gases between blood and the air
- Carbon dioxide is removed from the blood and released into the air, while oxygen is breathed in and passed into the blood
How to keep this system healthy:
- Consume nutrients regularly, especially vitamins A, C and E and the minerals potassium, selenium, magnesium and zinc
- Drink plenty of water to help keep the mucus secretions in your lungs thin, making breathing easier
Fun Facts:
- The first successful lung transplant was performed in Canada in 1983 by Dr. Joel D. Cooper.
- After four minutes without oxygen, the brain's cells begin to die. The respiratory system is vital.