Around 16.4 million people are living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Millions of more people have COPD but don't know it. This condition can leave your lungs inflamed, affecting airflow in and out of your lungs.
Since there is no cure, you must do everything possible to manage your condition. Keep studying to learn how to develop a healthy COPD diet. With these tips, you can be sure you're getting the nutrients you need to fight infection.
Create a healthy eating plan for yourself with these foods to eat with COPD.
Drink Up
First, make sure you are staying hydrated. Your body requires water to carry healing nutrients throughout your body.
Focus on having six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day. Drinking water can help thin the mucus, which will make it easier to cough.
Otherwise, try reducing your caffeine intake. In some cases, caffeinated beverages can interact negatively with your COPD medications. These beverages may include:
- Coffee
- Soda
- Tea
- Energy drinks
You can talk to your doctor about whether it's okay to drink alcohol. They may suggest that you avoid alcohol altogether, especially if your medications can cause side effects. In some cases, drinking alcohol can make it difficult for you to clear out mucus.
It might also slow your breathing rate down.
What to Eat
One study found that a ketogenic diet can reduce carbon dioxide production and improve your COPD symptoms. A keto diet focuses on reducing carbs and increasing healthy fats and proteins.
Try heating a high-quality protein such as:
- Oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
- Poultry
- Eggs
- Grass-fed meat
Oily fish are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Don't forget to have lots of fruits and vegetables. Try to eat vegetables that are low in starch and carbs, such as potatoes. Fruits and vegetables are full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can increase organ function.
For better lung function, choose potassium-rich foods such as:
- Avocadoes
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Leafy-green vegetables
- Tomatoes
You can also benefit by including complex carbohydrates in your COPD diet. Complex carbs are high in fiber, which can help manage your blood sugar levels. They are also ideal for improving the health of your digestive system.
Complex carbs can include:
- Lentils
- Peas
- Bran
- Potatoes
Don't forget those healthy fats! Use nuts, seeds, and olive oil in your favorite recipes for your COPD diet.
These foods can make coping with COPD very easier.
What to Avoid
It is important to avoid certain foods as well. For example, you don't want to consume too much salt, which can affect lung function. Instead, use unsalted herbs and spices in your recipes.
Here are foods to avoid with COPD:
- Grapes
- Pineapples
- Berries
- Melons
- Apples
- Peaches
- Apricots
- Brussels sprouts
- Beans
- Onions
- Peas
Knowing which foods to avoid with COPD can help improve your health and comfort.
Be Happy and Healthy with a Better COPD Diet
Develop a smart, healthy COPD diet. With these tips, you can concentrate on your health and maintain your COPD symptoms. Enjoy your next meal today with these tips!
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