Food
The 5 Worst Foods for COPD
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.
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