Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a lung disease that results in a person’s airways getting obstructed, making it very difficult for them to breathe. Due to its progressive nature, it worsens over time, especially if the patient does not get timely medical treatment and doesn’t follow a healthy diet. Following a diet will not cure COPD but it will definitely work towards easing the symptoms and help fight off infections. So, here are a few must-eat and must-avoid foods for people with COPD.

Reduce the intake of foods high in carbohydrates

The more carbohydrates in your body, the more carbon dioxide will be produced. Research has shown that people who shifted to a diet with reduced carbohydrates produced a lower amount of carbon dioxide. This helped them manage the symptoms of COPD better. Another study showed that people who consumed high-fat but low-carbohydrate diets showed major improvements.

Pass the salt

Salt contains sodium and if there is too much sodium in your diet, it will cause water retention, which will then affect breathing. You can try using unsalted spices. Also, check the ingredients in any foods you purchase off the shelf. They could contain additives and preservatives, which might not be the best for COPD.

Add protein-rich foods to your meals

Another tip to manage COPD is to add high-protein foods to your diet. Foods such as eggs, fish high in oils, poultry that is not processed but pastured, and grass-fed meat are good sources of protein.

Get some of those complex carbohydrates for your body

If you still want to add carbohydrates to your meal, try adding foods that have complex carbohydrates. Such foods are high in fiber and help your digestive system. You could add items such as peas, potatoes, lentils, quinoa, and even bran to your daily menu. For variety, get some oats and barley in there too!

Steer clear of foods that cause bloating and gas

There are quite a few veggies and fruits that are known to cause gas and bloating in some people. So, if you know certain foods that affect your digestive system and cause either bloating or gas, you may want to avoid them. Fruits such as apples, peaches, melons, and vegetables such as

beans and legumes are known to cause these sorts of troubles.

Fresh foods for your belly

Fresh produce contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals minus the unhealthy stuff such as additives, preservatives, and pesticides. This will help you stay healthy. Non-starchy vegetables are low in carbohydrates, so make sure you add them too!

Don’t forget the potassium

Potassium is essential when it comes to lung function, and if there is some kind of deficiency, it will cause breathing troubles. So, ensure that your diet has enough potassium supplements. Add foods like avocados, tomatoes, bananas, beetroots, potatoes, and even those leafy greens for a potassium boost to your daily meals.