Eating well is a powerful part of managing your COPD. The right foods can provide energy and make breathing easier.
Why It Matters
The simple act of digestion requires energy, which produces carbon dioxide. For someone with COPD, this can feel like extra work. Being overweight strains your heart and lungs, while being underweight can weaken your breathing muscles and reduce your energy reserves.
Key Eating Strategies
- Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on foods that pack a lot of nutrition into a smaller volume. Prioritize lean protein (chicken, fish, eggs, beans), whole grains, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: A large meal can push up on your diaphragm, making it harder to breathe. Try 5-6 smaller meals or snacks throughout the day instead of three large ones.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water (unless your doctor advises otherwise) helps thin the mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough up.
Simple Tip: Eat your largest meal when you feel most energetic, usually in the morning. Prepare for easier meals later in the day when you are more tired.