Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that refers to any illness that affects the lungs’ ability to function normally. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two important conditions of COPD. Lung conditions usually cause irreversible lung damage and progress to degenerate the functioning of the lungs. Wherever there is no cure for COPD, managing the symptoms to make breathing easier is the best option available. COPD is treatable, but with proper diet, medication, and lifestyle modifications there is every possibility that people diagnosed with COPD can live a healthy life. Making changes to diet is essential as there are some foods that trigger COPD. These foods which should be avoided or should be consumed in smaller quantities are:

1. Salt
Too much sodium or salt in the diet can cause water retention in the body, which affects the ability to breathe in COPD patients. This condition is called edema. The extra water acts like an extra layer around the diaphragm, which makes it difficult for a COPD patient to breathe. Reduce the salt in food and also read labels on processed foods. Salt consumption should be restricted to the required level so that water retention does not happen and cause harm to the lungs. Use lime as a substitute to salt, in salads.

2. Aerated drinks
These drinks contain carbon dioxide, preservatives, sweeteners, and color additives, all of which are bad for the health of a person suffering from COPD. They create pressure in the torso, which makes it difficult for the person to breathe. These drinks have no nutritive value and it is better off skipped completely.

3. Dairy products
Milk and milk products are best avoided if you suffer from COPD. Casomorphine which is produced during the digestion of milk increases the production of mucus. A lot more phlegm is produced, which has to be expelled from the body. This can cause severe cough and bouts of wheezing. Substitute milk with soy milk or almond milk.

4. Cruciferous vegetables
They are loaded with health benefits, but they have extra fiber that causes acidity and bloating. This will be a problem for those on a COPD diet as this bloating can cause severe breathing problems due to obstruction of airways.

5. Fried food
Fried foods are extra greasy and take a lot of effort to digest. Bloating can occur due to the time taken for the breakdown of fats. Fried foods also cause weight gain. The area around the middle of the torso is more prone to weight gain. The build-up of fat in this area puts pressure on the diaphragm and causes discomfort during breathing.

6. Cold cuts and cured meats
Cold cuts like ham, bacon, and sausages are high in nitrates. Nitrates are preservatives added to cold cuts to increase their shelf life. They are unhealthy for all people but more so for those who suffer from COPD. They worsen the lung condition and should be avoided.

7. Acidic foods and drinks
People with COPD are more prone to acid reflux. To prevent the flare-up of COPD, it is better to avoid or limit the intake of acidic foods and drinks in your COPD diet. Citrus fruit juices, coffee, and spicy foods should be avoided.

It’s highly important that people suffering from COPD do not include such food into their diet.