Best Foods To Reduce The Risk Of COPD

COPD, a group of serious inflammatory lung diseases, including Asthma, Bronchitis and Emphysema, can make it increasingly more difficult to breathe. Left untreated, it can lead to major damage to the lungs and a sharp decline in quality of life. But the good news is that COPD is both highly treatable and preventable, so you don't have to live with the fear of it.

It's no secret that smoking is the primary cause of COPD, with nearly 90% of sufferers having smoked or been exposed to second-hand smoke. But there are other risk factors too, like being female, genetics, age, and air pollution, dust, or chemicals. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce your risk of COPD and protect your lungs, from quitting bad habits to making lifestyle changes. Believe it or not, even some healthy foods can help to keep COPD away!

Important Note Regarding COPD

The range of symptoms experienced by those with COPD can vary greatly from person to person, from the more common signs such as wheezing, coughing, and exhaustion, to other lesser known symptoms. A diagnosis of COPD is only confirmed if the symptoms persist over an extended period of time.

If you've been experiencing bouts of acute Asthma, don't worry - it's usually the result of allergies or stress, and can be managed with the right treatment. That said, if you find yourself experiencing Asthma on a regular basis, it might become a chronic issue, so it's important to identify and take steps to avoid any possible triggers.

Potassium- Rich Fruits And Vegetables

For your lungs to stay strong and vibrant, they need a hearty helping of potassium. Get your daily dose of this essential nutrient by chowing down on some of these fresh, delicious fruits and veggies: dark leafy greens, tomatoes, asparagus, beets, potatoes, avocados, bananas and oranges.

Adding fruit salads and smoothies to your diet can be a great way to stay healthy, but watch out for added sugar! Excess sugar can lead to diabetes and other serious health issues, so make sure to enjoy these treats in moderation. When it comes to fruit drinks, always check the label for sneaky added sugars.

Introducing more fruit and veggies into your diet can make a huge difference to your health! Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, they can help strengthen your immune system, reduce inflammation and ward off infection. Plus, the extra boost of potassium is just the icing on the cake!

Protein-Rich Lean Meats

Stock up your refrigerator with lean meats and poultry for a burst of energy and nutrition! Protein is essential for keeping your muscles, bones, brain, and other bodily functions strong and healthy. Get creative in the kitchen - try baking, broiling, or grilling! Just don't forget to keep an eye on your salt consumption to give your heart and lungs a break.

Are you a light vegetarian who needs some help getting enough protein in their diet? Don't fret - there are lots of tasty and nutritious options to choose from! Eggs and fatty fish like salmon, tuna and sardines are packed with protein, while vegans can get their daily dose from beans, peas, nuts and seeds. Aim for around 5.5 ounces of protein per day for optimal results.

Complex Carbohydrates

If you're not a fan of veggies, don't worry - complex carbohydrates can make for delicious and nutritious meals that are great for your digestive system and blood sugar levels. Just watch out - too much fiber can lead to constipation, so make sure you're getting enough fluids. To get started, try adding peas, bran, potatoes with skin, lentils, quinoa, beans, oats and barley to your diet - yum!

Dietary Supplements

Incorporating vitamins and minerals into your daily meals can be an excellent way to boost your lung health!

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can make it seem impossible to fit healthy, well-balanced meals into your schedule. Even if you're a fan of nutritious foods, it can be tricky to get all the essential nutrients you need. And if you're following a specific diet, it's even more difficult. That's why it's a great idea to keep an array of supplements in your pantry or health cabinet – it's the smart way to ensure you get all the nutrition you need.

If you're looking to keep COPD at bay, a daily blend of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and herbs is key. Quercetin, Bromelain, Vitamin C, Nettle extract, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Magnesium, Calcium, Pantothenic Acid, and Licorice Root are all essential components of a preventive health regimen.

Final Thoughts

If you're a smoker, taking the initiative to quit is the most critical step in managing and boosting your COPD. While quitting may not be easy, it's worthwhile – you'll start to experience improvements in your health within days! Combining smart dietary choices with quitting smoking will help you to get on track to a healthier lifestyle.

If you want to keep your lungs in tip-top shape, it's important to take the necessary steps to avoid secondhand smoke. Ask those smoking around you to move away, and if they don't comply, make sure you keep your distance. Prevention is key, so don't forget to do whatever you can to protect your health!