Eating Well with COPD

COPD patients, especially those using supplemental oxygen, may find eating difficult. It is important as a COPD patient to get enough protein and to avoid foods that cause gas and bloating. Some COPD patients feel that eating small meals more frequently is a way to feel more comfortable.

Powerful Proteins

Getting enough protein is very important for people with COPD. Protein repairs and builds muscle, bone and other tissues. It also helps regulate blood sugar, fight infections, supply energy, and improve mental function. People with COPD need more protein than other people to help with these bodily functions.

Small Meals, All Day

Many people with COPD find that eating five or six small meals a day works much better than eating three full-sized meals. Because your stomach is right under your lungs, eating a big meal can push against your diaphragm and make it harder to breathe. Eating smaller amounts allows your diaphragm to move freely, so that your lungs can fill up and empty more easily.

In addition, eating smaller and more frequent meals-sometimes called nibbling or grazing-gives the body a constant flow of fuel and helps curb the cravings that lead to overeating. The trick is to eat healthy foods at each small meal and not to give in to the temptation to grab convenient, but high-fat, sugary, or salty snack foods.

Problem Foods

Certain foods can cause problems for people with COPD. Some vegetables, and beans or other legumes may cause gas and bloating, which can interfere with your ability to breathe.

You also may want to limit your salt intake. Too much sodium can cause you to retain fluids that increase the burden on your heart, lungs, and breathing. This is especially important if you also have heart problems.

Dairy products also can be a problem for some people with COPD. If you tend to produce a lot of mucus, drinking milk or eating other dairy products, like cheese, may cause you to produce more or thicker mucus. Eating dairy products that are lower in fat tends to reduce mucus production.

Good Fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is important for people with COPD. Keeping your body lubricated will help keep the mucus in your lungs thin and easier to cough up.

If you can, try to drink 6 to 8 eight-ounce glasses of fluid a day. Avoid caffeinated beverages, like coffee, tea and many sodas, because caffeine may interfere with some of your medications and can add to any feelings of anxiety. Remember that juices and sodas also contain lots of extra sugar, which adds empty calories to your diet.

You should also limit sodas and other carbonated beverages for another reason: They produce gas and bloating, making it more difficult for your lungs to work properly.

Conserving Energy

Like any other activity, preparing and eating meals requires energy. So, it's important to choose foods that are not only healthy, but easy to prepare. Also, take time to rest before and after meals, and to pace yourself as you would for any activity. You may want to eat your main meal early in the day, or whenever you tend to have more energy. As much as is possible, try to eat in a relaxed atmosphere and make your meals leisurely, attractive, and enjoyable.

Breathing & Eating Both eating and digestion require energy, which causes your body to use more oxygen. Take your time and really enjoy your meal. A leisurely meal is both more pleasant and allows your body to keep up with its own demand for oxygen. If you use supplemental oxygen, it's important to wear your cannula while eating and to continue using your oxygen as you digest your food. This helps supply your whole body with adequate oxygen while you digest your meal