A healthy nutrition plan is essential for individuals diagnosed with lung conditions like obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Certain foods help promote better breathing and improve energy levels while supporting the immune system. This post will explore five nutrient-rich foods experts recommend for those suffering from COPD to improve the symptoms and better manage the condition. But first, let us take a closer look at what COPD is and how it is caused.

What is COPD?
COPD is a respiratory ailment that affects the lungs. When someone has this condition, the air passages in their lungs become narrow and damaged, making it harder for air to flow in and out. As a result, the individual experiences difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. It can also cause other symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. The disorder can result from numerous factors, such as genetics and exposure to harmful pollutants and chemicals.

COPD is a chronic condition, which means it usually worsens with time. However, some treatments help manage the symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. A few examples are oxygen therapy and lifestyle changes like avoiding pollutants, exercising, and practicing breathing techniques. Increasing the intake of certain nutritious foods may also help alleviate the symptoms.

Foods to eat for managing COPD
Patients may incorporate the following foods into their nutrition regimen to better manage the disease:

Cheese
Cheese is an immunity-boosting food for those with COPD, high in vitamins B12 and A. Vitamin B12 helps break down proteins essential for forming red blood cells. On the other hand, vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining healthy mucus membranes throughout the body. Cheese also has probiotics—good bacteria that aid digestion and help keep the immune system strong. Due to these properties, cheese can benefit people with respiratory issues like COPD.

It is important to note that cheese is also high in saturated fats and can increase inflammation if eaten excessively. Thus, individuals should track their intake of this dairy product. To make a meal healthy, one can grate some cheese onto fresh green salad or between multigrain bread slices with some fresh veggies.

Oats
Oats are an excellent source of antioxidants and zinc, which help maintain a healthy immune system. In individuals with COPD, the immune cells in the lungs can become overactive and cause inflammation. Incorporating oats into the food plan may help reduce this inflammation and boost overall immunity. Oats are also rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber known to assist the body in fighting bacteria and viruses while protecting the respiratory system.

Like cheese, one should add oats to meals in limited quantities. One can blend soaked oats into fruity smoothies, enjoy oatmeal with milk, or savor oatmeal chocolate pancakes. These dishes could help lower COPD flare-ups and enhance immunity against other illnesses.

Potatoes
Potatoes are an inexpensive and versatile food with a wealth of benefits, especially for those with COPD. Due to a high content of vitamins C, B6, B12, and minerals like iron and magnesium, they can help boost the immune system. Potatoes also have antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress (oxygen imbalance) caused by COPD-related inflammation. They may help control this lung condition’s symptoms by reducing swelling in the airways and providing energy for balanced breathing.

Potatoes can be incorporated into the nutrition regimen in several exciting ways. For instance, one can mash boiled potatoes and spread them onto tacos or tortillas or add diced boiled potatoes to protein-rich chickpea salads.

Tofu
Tofu is a popular vegetarian source of protein with surprising health benefits for people with COPD. It contains several vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. These elements help boost the body’s immune system, maintain strong bones, and keep the airways healthy.

Tofu also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, which protect against oxidative stress (oxygen imbalance) caused by inflammation in COPD patients. Further, it helps lower cholesterol levels, which can contribute to inflammation in those with this disorder. Finally, tofu is high in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and aid the body in fighting various diseases.

One can relish some tofu mustard sandwiches or add diced tofu to soups to reap the benefits of this food!

Avocados
Avocados are an excellent superfood for boosting immunity and protecting against COPD. Rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins C and E, they can help strengthen the body’s defense against this health condition. Avocados also have healthy fats like monounsaturated fatty acids. These fats promote the absorption of vitamins and minerals and assist the body in fighting diseases by protecting the health of lung cells.

A few interesting ways to incorporate avocado into the food plan is to sandwich some creamy avocado spread between multigrain bread slices or blend avocado into a smoothie. Of course, the fruit can be eaten as is, too, without adding it to other dishes.

Lifestyle changes to manage COPD
Besides incorporating the foods discussed above into the nutrition plan, patients can follow these tips to alleviate COPD symptoms and discomfort:

Avoid air pollution
Air pollution can worsen COPD symptoms, so it is vital to avoid polluted environments when possible. One should stay indoors when the air quality outside is poor and use an air purifier to filter the air at home.

Stay active
Moderate physical activity can help improve lung function and overall health. Even if one experiences difficulty breathing, they should remain as active as possible. Walking, cycling, and swimming are some low-impact exercises that can help.

Manage stress
Stress is known to worsen COPD symptoms, so individuals should stay calm. Relaxation exercises like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing help manage stress and anxiety.

Avoid extreme temperatures
Extreme heat or cold can make breathing more difficult, so patients should avoid spending too much time in such environments.

If nutritional changes do not yield satisfactory results or if ongoing treatment does not help control the symptoms, patients should consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.