Keeping Your Lungs Healthy: Eating Right and Sleeping Well with COPD
Eating well is important for staying healthy, especially if you have COPD. Good food choices can help you breathe better, feel better, and lower the chances of problems from COPD. Plus, ensuring you sleep well is crucial for your breathing.
In This Article:
Eating Healthy
Introducing these simple tips into your life can make a big difference in how you feel daily, especially if you're dealing with COPD. Let's dive into some easy ways to eat well and stay hydrated to keep your lungs healthy and your body strong!
- Fill your plate with colorful fruits and veggies—like a natural medicine for your lungs, helping you breathe easier and feel stronger.
- Looking for steady energy, strong muscles, and easy breathing? Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and beans can help you feel great every day.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other healthy drinks like herbal teas. It helps keep your lungs clear and makes breathing easier.
Additional Tips for Improving Sleep with COPD
Nutrition and sleep go hand in hand. Here are some extra tips to help you sleep better, even if you have COPD. These simple strategies can significantly affect how well you rest and feel daily. Explore additional ways to improve your sleep quality and breathe easier throughout the night.
- Light Snacks: If you're hungry, have a light snack, but avoid heavy or sugary foods close to bedtime.
- Limit Caffeine: Avoid drinking caffeine, like sodas or chocolate, too close to bedtime.
- If You Can't Fall Asleep or Wake Up: Get out of bed, read, or do another activity with low light. Try going back to bed after 20 minutes.
- Keep a Sleep Diary: Experiment and determine what works best for you. It is recommended that adults typically get 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.
Taking care of your body by eating well and sleeping soundly can help you support healthy lungs. You'll find it easier to breathe and feel better when you make healthy food choices and practice good sleep habits.