• Grains (bread, cereals, pasta, rice, and potatoes) provide many of the vitamins you need to stay healthy. Try to eat 4-6 servings from this group daily; 1 serving =1/2 cup or 1 ounce. COPD patients should consult their physicians regarding carbohydrate intake.
• Fruits provide essential minerals and vitamins. Eat 2-4 servings per day; 1 serving = 1/2 cup or 1 medium-sized fruit.
• Vegetables are another great source of vitamins and minerals. Eat at least 3-5 servings per day; 1 serving = 1/2 cup.
• Meats/Alternatives (includes fish, poultry, dry beans, peas, eggs, and nuts) are high in protein and vital for the maintenance of your muscles. This is important to the COPD patient who needs well-toned muscles to aid in breathing. Try to eat 2-3 servings for a total of 5-7 ounces each day.
• Dairy Products (milk, cheese, and yogurt) supply calcium and high quality protein for bones and teeth. Have 2-3 servings per day; 1 serving = 1 cup.
• Fats, Oils, Sweets , and Alcohol (fats include butter, margarine, and shortenings; sweets include candy, cookies, cakes, and soft drinks) should be used sparingly and in moderation.

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The remaining sections of this chapter deal with a variety of food-related concerns. Do you recognize any of these problems?

Shortness Of Breath From The Too Full Stomach?

Try eating smaller meals throughout the day instead of three big meals. The too-full stomach will take up some of the room needed by your diaphragm for breathing. When planning frequent small meals be sure to schedule them far enough away from bedtime. Remember, you can use your prescribed oxygen if you experience extreme shortness of breath while you eat.

Limit the liquids you drink with your meals because this can stretch your stomach. Certain foods can also distend your stomach, making it harder to breathe. For this reason, watch out for gas-forming foods which may cause you discomfort. Some of these are:

Shortness Of Breath From Preparing Food?

This is a serious problem because eventually it can bring you to the point where all you're eating is cereal and milk, cookies out of the box, or something else that's "easy." Soon your body is starved for vitamins and minerals and you're even more tired, unable to eat well, and susceptible to infection.

If this is your problem, consider some of the newer convenience foods that are low in salt and saturated fat. Don't forget that fresh fruits and vegetables are simple and quick. Make a salad and add some non processed cheese or bits of beef, chicken, or tuna. Replace the cookies or crackers with unsalted nuts and seeds or dried fruits. They're just as "easy" to eat and they will provide the nutrients you need to function at your best.

There are lots of other easy and healthful foods: cottage cheese, yogurt, eggs, ground meat, and peanut butter. Some soups, stews, and casseroles almost prepare themselves. Even an instant breakfast drink provides "easy" and acceptable nutrition.

Problem Foods?

Adverse reactions to some foods may cause excess mucus to form, so try to recognize this problem and avoid those foods. Many individuals with COPD stop drinking milk because they complain that it produces excess phlegm. You can solve this problem and still drink milk, which is an excellent source of protein and calcium, by following with a glass of water. Some COPD patients are also troubled by ulcers and other gastrointestinal ailments and may not be able to tolerate certain foods. If this seems to be your problem, ask your doctor to suggest a menu plan that's right for you.

Congestion?

Drinking plenty of water to help keep mucus thin is probably the best advice to control congestion. Unless you have a problem with fluid retention, you should try to drink about 6 to 8 glasses of water each day. A warm drink in the morning may help eliminate morning congestion if this is a problem for you.

Low Potassium Level?

Potassium is a mineral needed by the body for heart, nerves, and muscles to function properly. Taking some prescribed diuretics (water pills) may deplete your system of its potassium supply. Low potassium levels can result in muscle weakness and cramping, as well as numbness and tingling of the fingers and toes. There are certain foods that help replenish this loss of potassium but several of them are also high in sodium. If your doctor has prescribed a salt-restricted diet for you, check with him before eating some of these foods:

Weight Problems?

Overweight: Extra pounds mean extra work for your lungs and heart and can limit the movement of your diaphragm when breathing. You may also tire more easily. If you're overweight, talk to your doctor about a sensible weight reduction plan. Salt should be watched since excess salt can cause you to retain fluids. Avoid adding salt when cooking or at the table, and limit salty foods such as ham, sausage, or bacon. Below is a no-salt seasoning recipe you may wish to try.