If you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you will find it very difficult to breathe due to blocked airways. To avoid and prevent the worsening of symptoms and flare-ups, you would need to make specific changes to your lifestyle. Besides, you would also need to avoid certain foods that can make your symptoms severe. Listed below are the worst foods for COPD that you should stay away from.

1. Acidic foods
Citrus or acidic foods and beverages, such as orange juice, lemon juice, tomatoes, and tomato-based products like sauces, are among the worst foods for COPD. These foods and beverages affect the functioning of the ring of muscle in the esophagus. This muscle is also known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES); it works as a valve or seal preventing stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus. However, when it does not function properly, food and stomach acid flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn. This can affect or trigger the symptoms of lung diseases like COPD.

2. Fizzy or gassy drinks
Carbonated drinks are among the worst foods for COPD and other respiratory disorders as they cause bloating. This can increase the pressure on the lungs, exasperating the symptoms of breathing disorders. Fizzy drinks also contain a high amount of sugar and empty calories, contributing to weight gain. If you are overweight or obese, it will affect your breathing and make COPD symptoms more severe. Hence, avoiding sodas, sparkling wines, beer, and other fizzy or gassy drinks and opting for water is a good option when diagnosed with COPD.

3. Cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli, radish, cauliflower, and cabbage are known as cruciferous vegetables, and these, too, can increase gas and bloating which, in turn, can affect breathing. Although these vegetables are packed with nutrients and fiber, limiting their intake when suffering from breathing issues could be a good idea.

4. Fried foods
These foods can also cause bloating and discomfort, making breathing difficult. Foods such as fried chicken, onion rings, and French fries are also not suitable for overall health as they cause weight gain, resulting in increased pressure on the lungs. Hence, avoiding fried products and opting for baked or other healthy alternatives could be beneficial if you have COPD.

5. Cold cuts
Bacon, ham, hotdogs, and other cured meats often contain additives known as nitrates. These are used to increase the shelf-life of these products. However, due to these nitrates, cold cuts are some of the worst foods for COPD as they can increase the risk of breathing difficulties.

Keeping these worst foods for COPD in mind when planning your meals will help you avoid breathing issues and prevent the triggering of COPD symptoms.