Following a healthy and balanced diet is one of the natural remedies for COPD. In addition to doctor-prescribed medications and therapies, dietary changes may help in reducing symptoms and improving the body’s immunity. A healthy diet can help prevent chest and lung infections that affect those with COPD. In this article, let’s have a look at the best diet for COPD patients and some supplements that are also helpful:
1. Protein-rich diet
Diet is one of the natural remedies for COPD that helps in weight loss and also provides the nutrition needed to strengthen the immune system. Proteins are an essential part of a well-balanced diet and help in improving general immunity. Foods rich in protein like grass-fed meat, eggs, and fatty fish like tuna and salmon are recommended to be included in the diet.
2. Include complex
Complex carbohydrates have fiber that helps in digestion and managing blood sugar levels. It can help to improve immunity and naturally fight COPD. Foods like bran, oats, peas, lentils, potatoes with skin, beans, and quinoa can be included in the diet.
3. Fruits and vegetables
No diet is complete without including fruits and vegetables. They contain all the nutrients that are good for the body. Apart from helping in a balanced diet, consuming fruits and vegetables aids weight reduction, which is important for those having COPD. Avocado, leafy greens, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, beets, and asparagus can be a part of the diet for those having COPD.
4. Antioxidant-rich diet
A diet that is rich in antioxidants helps in reducing oxidative stress and fights free radicals. It can prevent inflammation in the lungs and ease the symptoms of COPD. Consuming food rich in antioxidants is also helpful in improving lung function.
Kidney beans, plums, artichoke, carrots, berries, prunes, and green tea have abundant antioxidants and can be included in the diet for COPD patients.
5. Vitamin D
Studies have shown a link between Vitamin D deficiency and COPD. Vitamin D can be obtained from food sources like salmon, beef liver, milk, eggs, and cheese. It can also be taken in the form of supplements to strengthen the body.
6. Coenzyme Q-10
Along with creatine, Coenzyme Q-10 has proved to be effective in improving respiratory health. Supplements that have coenzyme Q-10 and creatinine can be taken to strengthen the lungs.
7. NAC
NAC or N-acetylcysteine is a supplement that is rich in antioxidants and helps reduce mucus. Those who have COPD frequently suffer from coughing bouts and produce a lot of mucus. This supplement is effective in reducing mucus and improving cough symptoms.
8. Melatonin
This is a supplement that can help those with sleep disorders. In COPD patients, it was found that melatonin helps in reducing oxidative stress and reducing respiratory symptoms.
9. Echinacea
Echinacea can be taken as a supplement, along with Vitamin C, to reduce symptoms of a cold that frequently affect those who have COPD.
