6 food allies for those with lung diseases

Contrary to what many believe, the treatment of lung diseases is not limited to the use of medication and respiratory physiotherapy. This is because it is also necessary to maintenance of healthy habitssuch as a balanced diet.

Nutritionist Juliana Vieira says that eating well is essential to improve patients’ quality of life, reducing symptoms and the chances of associated diseases. That’s why we’ve listed six foods that are good for those with lung problems. Check out!

1. Ginger

Known for its spicy flavor, this tuber can bring several benefits to the respiratory system. Due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps, for example, in the fight against infections and in the reduction of symptoms such as nasal congestion.

2. Pisces

According to nutritionist Juliana Vieira, the consumption of salmon, sardines, tuna and other fish can also be beneficial: “They improve coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing”. This is because these foods are rich in omega 3, which inhibits the production of inflammatory substances in the body.

3. Olive oil

Another food that the expert recommends is olive oil. Rich in vitamin E, this spice is able to protect the body against oxidants released by inflammatory cells, limiting tissue destruction caused by conditions such as cancer and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

4. Banana

This fruit is recommended for those who have lung diseases because, thanks to its high levels of potassium, it manages to help the lung to contract and expand – something that can become very difficult depending on the disease.

In addition, bananas also contribute to the proper functioning of muscles and the relief of pain related to physical exertion. This is especially interesting for those who have disabling lung diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis, and COPD.

5. Eggs

As a source of protein, eggs have a role similar to that of bananas in the treatment of lung diseases, as this food helps in the maintenance of muscle mass, which is very important for those who live with disabling diseases.

6. Dairy

Dairy products, in turn, help to maintain good levels of calcium in the body, reducing the chance of osteoporosis, a very common condition in people with lung diseases with limited mobility.

The nutritionist, however, warns: “There are several theories that relate the increase in mucus production to milk, but there is still no scientific proof that the drink can actually have this effect”. Anyway, she asks to avoid excesses.

additional care

For those who want to get even more benefits from changing eating habits, the tip is to have six meals a day in small amounts. According to Juliana, this avoids difficulty breathing after meals due to excess food, in addition to helping to control weight – essential in the treatment of various respiratory diseases.

It may also be beneficial to avoid:

• Sausages, as they contain nitrite and sodium, which are associated with worsening lung function;

• Alcoholic beverages, as they can reduce the body’s hydration levels, impairing mucus elimination and breathing;

• Fatty foods, because they take time to digest and thus worsen respiratory function through abdominal distention.

As the nutritionist explains, a multidisciplinary treatment can make all the difference, considerably improving the quality of life of patients with lung diseases, especially if they are chronic.