People who have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, sometimes find it difficult to get back to their favorite activities. /They are aware of the challenges of not being active, not getting the proper nutrition, and not feeling like themselves. Sometimes doing things differently can help people with COPD get back to breathing easier, and try new, or back to the same, activities. There are some things that can be done at home to help with the challenges of COPD:
1. Vitamins
Vitamins are essential for everyone, and for many health conditions. It is vitally important for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease to get enough vitamins. The vitamins C, D, A, and E are all essential for people with COPD. Vitamins should come from the foods that are eaten, but sometimes if the right amount is not obtained from food, then vitamin supplements should be taken as reinforcement.
2. Antioxidants
A COPD diet should include foods that are rich in antioxidants. This is what helps protect the body’s cells from free radicals that are highly reactive compounds that can damage the cells. Oxidants cause oxidation which is the interaction between molecules of oxygen and other substances. People with COPD should eat plenty of blueberries, fish, apples, kidney beans or pinto beans, cherries, plums, olive oil, artichoke, carrots, pecans, and green tea. COPD patients should talk with their doctor about including these foods in their diet.
3. Optimize air quality
Improve air quality by changing the environment of the home. Being able to breathe fresh air in the home is essential to the quality of life for a person with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease. Many things in the home can affect the air quality including dust, mold, mites, and the fragrances from scented candles. COPD can be better managed if the air quality can be improved inside the home, outside the home, and in the workplace. To help accomplish this, check all ventilation systems, and make the home a smoke free environment. Also, check the air filters in the home, and keep the humidity low. Switching cleaning strategy would help clean the air as well. Limit the use of harsh chemicals, and scented cleaning products. The person with COPD will breathe much easier.
4. Weight loss
Weight loss is always beneficial for any health condition. Eating a healthy diet, and incorporating an exercise routine would greatly decrease weight, and enhance breathing. The exercise does not have to be strenuous, but any type of regular movement would help the body manage certain disorders. Overweight people generally have more difficulty breathing than a person of average weight. This means that the lungs are working extremely hard to get a proper flow of air.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a progressive disease which means that it will only worsen in time. Anything that would make the disease more bearable, and comfortable should be a top priority of patients, family members, and caregivers. Do everything possible to help the person with COPD take a breath of clean, fresh, and much needed air.
