Health Tips - Things to Avoid When You Have COPD

Symptoms of COPD include inflammation, difficulty breathing, and a variety of others. One’s diet significantly impacts this condition, whether it be in a negative or positive way. There are, however, foods that should definitely be avoided

Nitrated Meats

Nitrated meats, such as cold cuts, ham, bacon and hot dogs, will worsen COPD. Aside from that, they are not good for anybody.

Salt and Salty Foods

Salt has the tendency to retain water inside the body, which can make it harder to breathe. Salts that are high in potassium may negatively react with other medications.

Milk and Dairy

Milk and dairy products are known to contain a compound called casomorphin, a byproduct of milk. This chemical will cause mucus build-up inside the intestines and lungs.

Cruciferous Vegetables

A cruciferous vegetable is basically any vegetable that’s high in fiber, such as broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy and radishes. The problem with fiber is that it’s known to produce gas and bloating. Both of these will make it harder for a person to breathe.

Shrimp

Unfortunately, harvesters add sulfites to shrimp in order to keep them from changing color. Sulfites will cause bronchial passages to swell up and close. Potatoes, wine and even beer contain sulfites, so it’s ideal to stay away from them too.

Fried Foods

Fried foods, whether it’s chicken or onion rings, will cause bloating inside the stomach. This pressure puts force upon the person’s diaphragm, inhibiting the ability to breathe. Avoiding these foods would be wise.

Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages have carbon dioxide gas dissolved inside of them. This gas escapes the liquid while it’s in the stomach. Naturally, this will cause unwanted bloating, which is bad news for a person who has COPD.

Citrus Fruits

Although citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, they have a high acidity content. This is likely to cause acid reflux, also known as heartburn. Those who have COPD are more likely to have heartburn, so eating citrus fruit isn’t the best idea.

Chocolate

Just like citrus fruits, chocolate can cause acid reflux as well. It’s fine to eat chocolate in moderation. However, it should not become a daily thing.

Pizza

Because pizza has tomatoes in it, it’s likely to cause heartburn. This is due to the fact that tomatoes are acidic. Those who have COPD can have pizza without tomato sauce.

Avoiding these foods will go a long way. To be realistic, avoiding these foods entirely may not be possible. Keep in mind that well-being is far more important than short-term pleasure. There are foods that help reduce the symptoms of COPD as well.

Know more about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease