Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two conditions that contribute to the disease. There are several treatments for COPD, but each differs based on the severity of the disease. During treatments, one must ensure they maintain good energy levels and stay healthy. The best way to ensure this is done is by including nutritious foods in all their meals.
Eating foods that help boost your energy if you have COPD is essential. You can still eat some comfort foods if you notice a change in body mass, as breathing also burns more calories when you have COPD. Those focussing on fitness can eat energy or nutrient-packed foods. This will keep the calories in check and also help you feel good.
If you get tired more often while eating or have trouble breathing, eat 4 to 6 smaller meals than 3 large meals. Additionally, you should eat enough but not completely fill your stomach so that you can relax.
Breakfast is an important meal, those suffering from COPD get easily tired during the day. In this case, they can have a heavy breakfast, as it could work as an energy booster. Moreover, choose snacks that are healthy at hand, like nuts, to avoid saturated fats and unhealthy cholesterol.
- Oatmeal
You can start your day with oatmeal which is rich in vitamin A, iron, calcium, and fiber. Having it with milk makes it more nutritious. The fiber content makes you feel fuller with fewer calories; you can also add berries instead of adding artificial sweeteners. - Cheese
You can add cheese to your vegetables, along with rice and potatoes, to increase the calorie count and nutrient value of any meal. The extra calcium is great as most options prescribed for COPD make the bones brittle. Look for a cheese that is labeled as reduced-fat or part-skim. - Milk
Milk provides vitamin D and calcium which keeps your bones strong. Try drinking more milk than water. - Fiber
You need at least 30 grams of fiber. You can go for lentil soup, split pea soup with low sodium, eat fresh vegetables, fruits, bread, whole grain cereals, brown rice, bran, and dry beans. - Eggs
If you wish to increase your energy, add egg in your meals. Mix eggs with meatloaf and bake it or you can try it with cheese and macaroni. However, avoid eating raw eggs as it may cause food poisoning. - Fresh foods
One must consume as many fresh vegetables and fruits as possible as they are filled with nutrients and are a great source of fiber. Meals that are balanced are better than having meat and potatoes. This also boosts one’s energy and improves overall health. - Shakes
Shakes are perfect for people with COPD as it contains vitamin D and calcium. You can eat fruits with yogurt or milk or choose low-fat dairy products. - Starchy vegetables
Starchy vegetables like carrots, corn, and beets are rich sources of minerals and vitamins. They have more calories than other vegetables. - Protein
Protein is essential. You can eat mashed potatoes, protein powder, soy protein, lean meat, fish, nuts, legumes, and poultry to your meal plan.
