Chronic bronchitis and emphysema represent the two major types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Many experts view asthma as part of this family of lung diseases, though not everyone supports the idea. Smoking is the major cause of COPD and produces symptoms that include shortness of breath, chest pressure, and weight loss. Alongside different forms of medication and therapies, specific dietary recommendations are also made to ensure symptoms improve over time.

Nuts, dried beans, and lean meat deliver good nutritional value and should be part of a COPD patients’ diet. Alternatively, certain foods have the exact opposite effect, and therefore, should be avoided at all costs. Here are six foods that are part of the list.

Salt

While it may be unavoidable, too much salt increases the water retention capacity in the body. This, in turn, makes breathing difficult and worsens COPD symptoms. Chances of chronic stomach problems are also increased with a diet high in salt content. Lower salt consumption, meanwhile, provides benefits like lower blood pressure.

Caffeine

On the outside, the natural stimulant may not look that bad and could actually improve some symptoms of lung diseases. However, those suffering from COPD are usually under medication, which can interfere with caffeine in the body. Hence, the substance must be avoided or at least consumed in minimal amounts.

High-calorie Food

This is a tricky one because underweight individuals need high-calorie foods. However, excess consumption of such substances, which include fish, milk, and beans, can result in weight gain. This subsequently makes the heart and lungs demand further energy. COPD patients, as it is, require more energy for breathing, and thus, cannot afford this excess requirement. Reducing dependence on such foods is the only way out of the problem.

Fried Food

There are tons of reasons COPD patients, or anyone for that matter, mustn’t consume fried foods. These are deep-fried foods and are high in trans fat, which increases the risk of a number of problems. As far as COPD is concerned, patients can experience gas and indigestion that may trigger breathing concerns. Doughnuts, french fries, and chips are all examples of this category.

Soda

The high sugar content of the drink is one of the biggest reasons why COPD patients might need to avoid it. Soda, additionally, causes problems in the digestive tract and leads to the formation of gas in the system. This can have an adverse effect and cause shortness of breath and wheezing.

Dairy Products

Consuming milk, cheese, and other dairy products depends entirely on the patients’ body. Some individuals suffering from COPD have reported that these foods, rich in lactose, caused bloating and breathing issues. That being said, dairy products deliver tremendous value and can’t be entirely ignored. Consulting with the doctor or dietitian would be useful in such a scenario.