People with lung-related diseases are often told to modify or alter their diet. This is because several foods tend to worsen the condition’s symptoms and cause further damage. With proper nutrition, medication, and certain lifestyle changes, one will be able to manage and improve the overall health of their lungs. In this article, we will be discussing tips for the same.

6 of the worst foods for lung health

1. Processed foods
Foods such as cold cuts and potato chips can cause serious trouble to the lungs. This is because these foods and drinks contain harmful chemicals like nitrates and an abundance of salt and sugar. This can cause acid reflux, bloating, and gas, which in turn, put a lot of pressure on the lungs. This may also increase the risk of developing heart disease and obesity.

2. Acidic foods
Consuming acidic foods and drink such as fried food, coffee, and citrus juices may trigger heartburn or acid reflux. These problems tend to aggravate symptoms of certain lung diseases such as COPD. Therefore, to avoid this, one must refrain from consuming items of this kind.

3. Fried foods
Fried foods such as puff pastries and onion rings contain a lot of unhealthy fats. This can lead to excess fat gain and obesity, which, in turn, put a lot of pressure on the lungs. Additionally, eating fried foods can cause bloating, resulting in problems with breathing. One should avoid eating fried foods or substitute them for baked alternatives.

4. Salt
Too much salt can result in issues in several parts of the body, including the lungs. This is because excess salt leads to water retention in the body. This, eventually, leads to difficulty in breathing. One can reduce the amount of salt they put in their food or substitute it completely with herbs and other unsalted seasonings. Moreover, one must watch the amount of salt that packaged sauces or additives contain and manage their food accordingly.

5. Dairy
Although dairy products contain healthy nutrients, they might are one of the worst foods for people with lung disease. This is because dairy products like milk contain a substance called casomorphin. This causes an increase in the phlegm levels in the lungs. One can consume dairy products in moderation or look for other healthy and safe alternatives like soy milk.

6. Certain vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage may cause bloating and gas for people with lung diseases. One can try eating these vegetables in moderation if it doesn’t cause them any symptoms. However, if one has recently undergone a lung procedure or has a lung condition, it is advisable to avoid consumption of cruciferous vegetables.

Maintaining a healthy diet goes a long way in managing lung diseases as well as keeping the lungs healthy. Avoiding the worst foods for lung health that are mentioned above and adding fresh fruit, whole grains, and protein-rich foods to one’s foods can help manage the condition.