Summer Diet for People Suffering From COPD

A diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is lifechanging. It’s important to take into account not only your new health requirements, but also your ongoing health. Chances are your COPD is a sign that you could be living a heathier life in many other ways. So how about a summer diet for COPD that is meant to help you breathe better and feel better?

It’s so important for COPD patients to monitor their body weight. Extra weight adds undue stress to your chest and diaphragm, making it even more difficult to breathe. All the foods on this summer diet for COPD is meant to watch your weight and decrease the impact of your COPD symptoms.

Foods to Avoid

Knowing what to eat is an important as knowing what NOT to eat. The best diets for COPD contain a list of foods you should avoid. Though like anything, balance is the most important part of every diet. If you want to splurge and eat something on the naughty list, you can. However, speak to your doctor if you are worried that anything foods will worsen your COPD. Be sure to have your COPD equipment, including portable oxygen concentrator, near you at all times!

• Cured Meats

This means your COPD summer diet should not include salami, pepperoni, or cured hams. These foods contain nitrates, which worsen COPD symptoms.

• Salt

Cut back on your salt intake. Salt causes the body retain water which can make it harder to breathe.

• Dairy

Milk and other dairy products create mucus which can cause breathing problems and annoyances for people suffering with COPD.

• Fried Foods

Fried foods, especially large portions, cause your stomach to bloat which then causes undue stress on your diaphragm, making it more difficult to breath.

• Caffeine

Avoid caffeinated drinks that increase heart rate and dehydrate you. Symptoms of caffeine will only worsen any symptoms caused by COPD.

Foods That Help

• Protein

Low fat proteins are a great way to satisfy your appetite without unnecessary weight gain. Oil proteins like salmon, mackerel, and bison are perfect, low-fat proteins to add to your COPD summer diet.

• Potassium

Foods like bananas, oranges, avocados, and dark leafy greens are filled with potassium. High potassium can be helpful for people who suffer asthma attacks and can aid in your breathing problems.

• Water

Drink lots of good fluids. As long as your summer diet for COPD is caffeine free, you are in the clear. You don’t have to stick to water, but it’s the healthiest choice.

• Fiber

Fiber helps move food along the digestive track, keeping you happy and healthy. Though a fiber filled diet does not have a direct affect on lung capacity or breathing capabilities, it is part of a healthy diet. A healthy overall diet is beneficial for all those suffering from COPD as well!

We hope this guide has been helpful. Please contact us if you have any questions about your portable oxygen concentrator! We’re here to help.