COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a respiratory disorder that is characterized by breathlessness. This condition is not curable, but a healthy and well-balanced diet may reduce the risk of the complications. There isn’t any food item that offers all the nutrients, and you need to consume a variety of nutritional substances. Listed below are the dietary tips for COPD that can bring a significant change in your condition.

• Consume fruits: Fruits can be really helpful for the patients of COPD. Options like apple, melons, peaches and berries are rich in vitamin E, C and are packed with antioxidants. Having adequate fruit servings everyday can reduce the infection and keep your lungs healthy.
• Take omega-3 fatty acids: In the list of dietary tips for COPD, omega-3 is on the top. Omega-3 fatty acids are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that help in shielding the body against inflammatory diseases. Walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, fatty fish and kidney beans are some of the foods that are rich in this nutrient. Therefore, when consumed in moderation, they are highly beneficial for your lung health.
• Try berries: Berries have vitamin C, which can protect the lungs and reduce the risk of developing any other respiratory disease. Grapes, blueberries, cranberries, and strawberries are the best options to keep your lung healthy.
• Consume dairy: The dietary tips for COPD also suggest the consumption of dairy products. Dairy products like skimmed milk, soy milk, almond milk, and cottage cheese provide nutrients like vitamins and calcium. However, before their consumption, you need to consult your doctor to be sure that the products are not leading to mucus formation, as they can worsen the condition of COPD patients.
• Fresh vegetables: Vegetables are a must-have, especially in case of COPD. This is because they offer vitamins like A, C and E along with magnesium, folic and zinc, which can assist in stabilizing the condition. These nutrients improve the blood circulation to the lungs, and also relieve congestion.
• Increase intake of liquids: The dietary tips for COPD also recommend keeping the body hydrated. Dry lungs are at a higher risk of catching an infection. Therefore, consuming liquids is essential to keep the body hydrated and your lungs in a proper condition. You must consume eight to ten glasses of water every day and the liquid intake can also be increased with soups, green tea, and fruit juices.
• Avoid gas causing food or drinks: There are various food items that are known to produce gas. This factor does not bother healthy people, but those suffering from COPD can suffer complications. As when you have COPD, you experience a feeling of fullness and bloating. Foods that can cause gas include broccoli, onions, cauliflower, beans and fried foods. Carbonated beverages can also lead to bloating, so they must be avoided.

People battling this disease can definitely stabilize their condition by following the above-mentioned dietary tips for COPD. Along with this, it is mandatory to go for regular check-ups to know your actual condition.