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Nutrition for Breathing Problems

From "American College of Chest Physicians", for more details, please visit the website.

Good Nutrition

Maintaining your health is impossible without eating the right foods. Speak with your doctor or nutrition specialist if you need help in planning and preparing healthy meals. Some people with COPD have trouble keeping weight on. If this is a problem for you, discuss nutritional supplements with your doctor or nutritionist. Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for functioning well with COPD.

Many people with COPD find it helpful to:

• Eat several smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. Because your stomach is directly under your lungs, eating a big meal can push against your diaphragm and make it harder to breathe.
• Avoid gas-producing foods such as apples, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, corn, cucumbers and carbonated beverages. These foods can cause your stomach to swell and press against your diaphragm.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep airway mucus thin and free-flowing.

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