Why do COPD patients need to focus on a diet? What food should they avoid?

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In this condition, it is suggested the person should follow a diet plan so that their health condition improves. When you consult the Pulmonologist in Punjab he will suggest to you the food items which you need to eat and what food you should avoid. If you are concerned about your condition then you should consult the best Chest specialist in Ludhiana.

How does a diet affect COPD?

When you follow a well-balanced diet it will reduce inflammation and the adverse health effects will be reduced. Studies have shown that when you follow a proper diet it helps in seeing the following changes:

• Reduce inflammation
• Boost lung functioning
• Lower down the metabolic and heart disease risk
• Maintain and imrpove the muscle strength

What are the best food options for a person with COPD?

Well! COPD patients need to eat food that is rich in anti-oxidants and they need to have anti-inflammatory food as it prevents COPD symptoms. Following a proper diet plan will keep your weight balanced. Along with that, you need to follow a healthy lifestyle. Here is the list of food items which you should eat.

• Complex carbohydrates

These contain sugar molecules and the body will take time to break them down. You need to eat fresh fruits & vegetables, whole grains, pasta, lentils, and beans. Eating healthy food options and healthy fat will make difference in your overall health.

• Eat fiber-rich food

You need to have fiber-rich food and every day you need to have at least 20 to 30 grams. Some of the sources are nuts & seeds, vegetables, whole grains, oats, fruits, and lentils.

• Protein

You should increase the protein intake in your diet as doing so will improve the quality of life. Some here are some of the food options which you need to include in your diet to boost your nutritional statuses like milk, cheese, tofu, legumes, nuts & seeds, meat, and fish.

• Mono and polyunsaturated fats

Both of them are healthy fats that are known for reducing the cholesterol level and some of the food options for the same are nuts & seeds, salmon, avocados, olive oil, and avocado oil.

But make sure that you talk to the doctor about what you should eat and which food item do you need to avoid.

What food you should avoid with COPD?

Simple carbohydrates

• Table sugar
• Chocolate and candy
• Cakes and other sugary desserts
• Sugary drinks
• Processed foods
• White bread and pasta

Unhealthful fats

• Fast food
• Bacon and other processed meats
• Fried foods
• Sugary pastries
• Margarine
• Ice cream

It is important to understand that not every fat is healthy, therefore you need to understand the difference between the 2. After that make the necessary changes to the diet.

Consult the doctor

If you are diagnosed with COPD make sure that you are clear about the diet aspect with the doctor and see what food is best for your health. Make sure to clear all your doubts during the face-to-face consultation.