COPD is becoming more common in the United States. Studies have shown that about 11 million people have been diagnosed with this condition.
Fortunately, there are a series of natural treatments that have, over time, proven to be efficient in the treatment of this disease. Here are the top foods and natural treatments that help alleviate the symptoms of COPD.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a general term that encompasses several other infections such as asthma, acute bronchitis, and emphysema. One of the main symptoms of this respiratory infection is that it narrows the airflow, thereby, making a seemingly simple process such as breathing appear very difficult.
Moreover, studies have revealed tobacco to be the primary cause of COPD. Therefore, the initial cure to COPD is to avoid smoking in the first instance. Unfortunately, a lot of people who suffer from this disease have refused to quit smoking, regardless of their health status.
The major symptom of the development of COPD is the restriction in the movement of air within the lungs. Often, such symptoms take time to develop until there has been substantial damage to the lungs.
Some of the early signs of the development of COPD include wheezing, difficulty in breathing, fatigue, constant weight loss, respiratory infections, and chest tightness.
If you notice any of these early signs, then it would be advisable you consult a physician as soon as possible. Why? Because COPD symptoms deteriorate with time. So, the earlier they are detected, the higher the chances of getting a successful cure.
COPD is a disease that develops gradually. In fact, it goes through four stages /steps before it becomes critical. These are:
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Very Critical
Each of these steps has a different impact and manifestation. Generally, the further it goes down the steps, the higher the chances of death. COPD has no cure, but then, natural remedies have been developed to manage the disease.
These natural remedies, in combination with your effort, can significantly relieve these symptoms.
A healthy and well-planned diet can be very beneficial to your overall health. Although some foods are required for our daily activities, others should be taken at very minimal quantities. Consume foods that are high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins as it will help the healing process of the body.
A healthy diet should include fruits, nuts, grains, and healthy oils such as coconut oil. Other foods that are very high in antioxidants include salmon, flax seeds, ND chia seeds. They contain omega-3-fatty acids, which help the body in the healing process.
Reviewed by Liss Sullivan
Written by Debrah Henn
TRENDING
Reviewed by Liss Sullivan
Written by Debrah Henn
TRENDING
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Dietary Supplements
Ginseng
No doubt, this plant is a very important supplement in the world. Although the ones cultivated in America are also great, however, the Chinese ginseng process to contain more anti-inflammatory properties. A majority of these properties are found in the root. Herb extracts from ginseng have proven to be efficacious in treating lots of COPD related illnesses. Research has proven that daily use of ginseng can help people battling with COPD to be more active. If used consistently, this supplement will not only help to improve the respiratory activities but will also limit the activities of bacteria in the lungs.
Curcumin
Curcumin is an extract from the common Asian spice, turmeric. Over the years, curcumin has consistently helped to guard against airway inflammation. Besides, it is one of the best natural options for people who are suffering from COPD. The herb is so powerful that a high dosage has little or no adverse effect. It’s also very efficient from individuals who are battling with mucous secretions as it will help to provide a clear airway. Hence, better breathing.
Magnesium
Magnesium, in collaboration with calcium, is very useful in controlling the events that occur in the lungs. The main function of magnesium is that it helps blood clot, provides protein, and aids muscle contractions. Most importantly, this mineral contains what is referred to as “antihistamine” – very useful in aiding breathing.
Since magnesium is very important for the health of the muscles, a low quantity of it can lead to weakened breathing muscles. Therefore, COPD patients are advised to consume more foods that contain magnesium. Such foods can include bananas, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and cruciferous.
Red Sage
In China, Red sage is a medicinal herb that is commonly used in the treatment of heart infections, menstrual pains, and blood circulation. However, studies have revealed that there is a powerful compound that is contained in this herb, which is very efficient in fighting inflammations that cause COPD. It does this by regulating the response of a particular type of white blood cell.
Lemon
Lemon helps to relax the muscles along with the lungs and also clear the air pathways. Aside from that, the fruit is known to fight bacteria and provide substantial support for the immune system. The oil obtained from the lemon is also useful in fighting inflammations and bacteria.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil helps to decongest the nasal pathways, and it has a very high antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Cincole, an active component of the oil, is useful in fighting against harmful materials that are present in the lungs. Besides, it has some antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system.
To get the optimal value of Cincole, it is better to put the eucalyptus oil in a humidifier or diffuser so that you can inhale the air directly.
Anti-inflammatory foods
The body's way of reacting to an infection or anomaly is to cause inflammation. Of course, chronic COPD and other related diseases can cause severe swelling. Therefore, diets that contain high anti-inflammatory substances are beneficial in this situation. They are designed to reduce chronic inflammation, which is very crucial in the buildup of COPD.
Foods that are high in anti-inflammatory substances are vegetables (of all rainbow color), quinoa, millet, top omega-3 seafood like salmon, and even plant proteins like edamame.