Vitamins are rich in antioxidants, which help to cleanse the lungs and improve the condition of lungs. The best vitamins for respiratory infection include vitamin C, B-complex vitamins and zinc.
While everyone wants to improve their health and have a long life, some may not realize the importance of taking vitamins for respiratory infection. These vitamins can help rid your body of any harmful toxins while aiding in the recovery process and helping your lungs work more efficiently.
Everyone wants to know what vitamins they should be taking and which ones to avoid when fighting respiratory infections. The truth is, there are a variety of vitamins that can help with your lung health. Here’s our top picks for vitamins that fight oppressiveand can also strengthen your lungs so they don’t get damaged by bacteria.
vitamins for shortness of breath
One of the causes of shortness of breath is a bacterial infection that spreads to your lungs and heart. This article will tell you what vitamins can help prevent lung infections, how much to take, and which ones are best.
Respiratory infections are a common condition of the respiratory tract (inhaled pathogen). The lungs are often affected by the infection, but it may not be know exactly how this happens. The process starts when an infectious agent is inhaled and spreads in the airways of your lungs causing inflammation or irritation among other things. These symptoms include coughing, a red, itchy throat and fever.
Diseases of the lungs are among the major health problems in the country. In fact, pulmonary disease is responsible for 75% of all adult deaths — 97,000 people per year. If it had been preventable, this figure could be less than 1%. If you feel shortness of breath or have any other respiratory problems, you should take personal measures to support your health and prevent diseases.
vitamins for lungs and heart
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a collective term for a group of chronic lung conditions including chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma, and emphysema. However, there are a number of supplements and remedies available that may help ease the symptoms of COPD.
People with COPD find it increasingly difficult to breathe. Among other symptoms, they may experience coughing, wheezing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
Nutrition is very important for the 15.7 million peopleTrusted Source in the United States with a COPD diagnosis.
According to the COPD Foundation, people with COPD may need 430–720 more calories per day than other people, due to the effort they need to exert while breathing. In fact, 25–40%Trusted Source of people with COPD are also dealing with malnutrition, which interferes with their long-term prognosis.
At present, there is no cure for COPD. However, the American Lung Association suggest that eating a high fat, low carbohydrate diet can be helpful for people with breathing problems.
There are also many different supplements and remedies that people with COPD can try to support their medical treatment and help them manage their condition. Keep reading to learn more.
Vitamins
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Researchers have identified the following vitamins for COPD treatment and support:
- Vitamin D
StudiesTrusted Source have suggested that many people with COPD have low vitamin D, and that taking vitamin D supplements helps the lungs function better.
Taking vitamin D-3 supplements for COPD can also protect against moderate or severe flare-ups.
- Vitamin C
ResearchersTrusted Source have linked low levels of vitamin C to increases in shortness of breath, mucus, and wheezing. - Vitamin E
StudiesTrusted Source suggest that people experiencing a flare-up of COPD symptoms tend to have lower levels of vitamin E than people whose COPD is stable.
Other studies suggest that long-term use of vitamin E supplements may help prevent COPD.
- Vitamin A
According to one study, individuals with the highest intake of vitamin A had a 52% lower risk of COPDTrusted Source.
Minerals
Researchers have identified the following minerals for COPD treatment and support:
- Magnesium
Magnesium supports lung function, but some COPD medications may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb it.
People should also exercise caution when taking magnesium supplements for COPD, because it can interfere with some drugs and cause side effects.
- Calcium
Calcium can help the lungs function, but some COPD medications may cause people to lose calcium. This makes it even more important for people with COPD to consider increasing calcium-rich foods in their diet.
If a person is not able to reach their calcium needs through the diet, it may be necessary to take a calcium supplement.
Other supplements
Researchers have identified the following additional supplements for COPD treatment and support:
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation for people with COPD. Although they occur in fish, seeds, and nuts, some people take fish oil supplements to make sure that they get enough of this nutrient. - Dietary fiber
Eating more dietary fiber may lead to a lower risk of COPDTrusted Source. - Herbal teas
In some parts of the world, many people with COPD use the following teas to reduce the symptoms:
green tea
chamomile tea
lemon balm tea
lime tea
linseed tea
sage tea
thyme tea
mallow tea
rosehip tea
mint tea
In fact, some researchTrusted Source has shown that drinking green tea at least twice per day may reduce the risk of developing COPD.
- Curcumin
Present in turmeric, some people call curcumin a natural anti-inflammatory.
Some research suggests that it may help treat the inflammation of the airways that characterizes COPD.
- Ginseng
Some traditional and alternative health advocates recommend ginseng supplements for COPD, to help build up lung strength.
However, a 2019 study found little difference in the results between those who took ginseng for COPD and those who took a placebo.
Read about some natural remedies for COPD here.
When to see a doctor
COPD is chronic and progressive, which means that it does not go away and tends to get worse with time. People with COPD need to see their doctor regularly to monitor and manage their condition.
Even though prescription drugs cannot reverse the gradual decline in breathing capacity, they can help people with COPD manage their symptoms.
Also, getting regular flu shots can help people with COPD prevent illnesses that could cause serious complications. For these reasons, people with COPD need regular medical care.
Although taking supplements for COPD can be helpful, people with this condition should speak to a doctor or other healthcare provider about all the supplements they are taking or planning to take.
Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other products may interact and interfere with COPD medications. They can also cause side effects.
Summary
COPD is a serious and chronic health condition.
Although there is currently no cure for this condition, medical treatment can help people manage their symptoms. Using herbal and nutritional supplements for COPD can also help with symptom management.
Before taking any supplements, however, a person should discuss their use with a doctor or other healthcare provider.
SHOP FOR VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS
Some of the supplements listed in this article are available for purchase in stores and online.
vitamin D
vitamin C
vitamin E
vitamin A
magnesium
calcium
omega-3 fatty acids
turmeric
dietary fiber
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease makes it increasingly difficult for a person to breathe. It is not currently possible to cure or reverse the condition completely, but a person can reduce its impact by making some treatment and lifestyle changes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects around 16 millionTrusted Source people in the United States. It is possible that many people who experience COPD symptoms mistake them for a normal sign of aging.
The disease can progress for years without shortness of breath or the person being aware of the condition.
Symptoms of COPD may include:
a nagging cough
frequent respiratory infections
shortness of breath
less ability to exercise
wheezing
chest tightness
Doctors tend to use a spirometric test for diagnosis. It is a simple, noninvasive breathing test to examine lung function.
Though they cannot cure the COPD, lifestyle choices can slow progress and reduce symptoms. This article takes a look at some choices that can help with COPD, along with how best to slow the progress of the disease.
Lifestyle changes
Although there is currently no cure for COPD, there are many ways that a person can reduce their symptoms and slow disease progression. They include:
Quitting smoking
Quitting smoking cannot reverse COPD, but it can slow the progression.
The main causes and risk factors for COPD include:
smoking
environmental factors
genetics
Smoking causes 85–90 percent of COPD cases. The best thing that a person who smokes and has COPD can do is stop smoking cigarettes altogether.
Quitting smoking cannot completely reverse COPD, but it can help slow the progression of the disease and may improve the body’s response to treatment.
As well as preventing any further damage to the lungs, quitting smoking can improve the immune system.
Avoiding irritants
Also, those with COPD will benefit from avoiding any environmental factors that may irritate their lungs, including secondhand smoke, air pollution, and dust.
A person with COPD should also try to manage any allergies that may contribute to their breathing difficulties.
Improving exercise
Exercise cannot cure or reverse COPD, but it may improve some of the symptoms.
One of the symptoms of COPD is shortness of breath. This symptom can make exercise and everyday physical tasks difficult. A lack of exercise may also weaken the muscles and make a person’s heart and lungs even less tolerant to physical activity. As a result, exercise is important to keep the muscles strong.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can be useful in improving a person’s ability to tolerate exercise. People who have COPD should start slow and gradually increase their exercise with the guidance of a doctor.
It is important that a person’s exercise routine includes:
Exercise can improve the symptoms of COPD.
a warmup and stretching
cardiovascular exercises, such as walking or using a stationary bike
strength training, such as using hand weights
According to the CDC, the benefits of exercise includeTrusted Source:
a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
a reduced risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome
a reduced risk of cancer
better weight control
stronger muscles and bones
improved mental health and mood
Eating well
Getting regular exercise and following a healthful diet can also boost the immune system and improve COPD symptoms, as well as general health.
In particular, a person should limit their intake of simple carbohydrates, instead opting for complex carbohydrates, and consume 20–30 grams of fiber per day.
Is it possible to prevent or slow progression?
COPD is a chronic and progressive disease. While it is possible to slow progress and reduce symptoms, it is impossible to cure the disease, and it will gradually worsen over time. Early diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment and slowing the disease before it starts to progress.
Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding environmental pollutants can help slow progress and reduce symptoms.
Outlook
COPD is a chronic and progressive disease that can make it difficult for people to breathe. The condition currently has no cure, but people can take steps to reduce its impact.
If symptoms get worse, it is important to talk to a doctor to evaluate the current treatment plan and make adjustments accordingly.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can affect breathing, but some breathing techniques and other strategies can help.
COPD may not cause symptoms in the early stages, but in time, it can cause a persistent cough, excess mucus production, wheezing, and chest tightness. The symptoms can come and go, and when they flare up, it can be frightening. A person may feel that they cannot breathe.
However, there are ways to reduce the effects of these symptoms. Breathing techniques can helpTrusted Source a person overcome anxiety and manage their breathing during an attack. These exercises can also improve the quality of life by helping a person feel more in control of their symptoms.
Here, learn more about breathing techniques that can help people with COPD.
COPD and pulmonary rehab
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“Pulmonary rehab” refers to a program designed to help people with breathing problems due to COPD.
At this type of program, a person can:
learn breathing exercises that help them breathe more easily
learn techniques to conserve energy
follow a diet and exercise program that suits their needs
learn about COPD and ways to manage it
access counseling and support
The rehab oftenTrusted Source takes place in a hospital or clinic, and doctors, nurses, pulmonary therapists, and other healthcare professionals may be involved.
It is not possible to reverse the damage that COPD causes, but pulmonary rehab can help the lungs work better and improve a person’s quality of life and sense of well-being.
Research from 2021Trusted Source suggests that rehab programs that provide counseling and are individualized can help people with COPD become more active and motivated to manage their symptoms.
How can Medicare help with pulmonary rehabilitation costs?
Pursed-lip breathing for COPD
Pursed-lip breathing is one exercise that a person may learn at pulmonary rehab.
During shortness of breath, this can reduce the number of breaths taken and help keep the airways open for longer.
Pursed-lip breathing involves breathing in through the nose and then breathing out twice as slowly through pursed lips.
Here are some tips for pursed-lip breathing:
Sit comfortably
Relax the neck and shoulders.
Breathe in slowly through the nose while keeping the mouth closed.
Pucker or purse the lips, pretending to whistle or blow out a candle.
Breathe out all of the air in the lungs, slowly and gently, through the pursed lips.
The goal is to make breathing out take longer than breathing in.
It may take practice and concentration to master pursed-lip breathing. Practicing for 5–10 minutes a day helps. It is best to practice at first while breathing normally.
Pursed-lip breathing can help:
prevent rapid breathing
reduce anxiety when breathing is difficult
the lungs take in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
slow down breathing so more air enters and leaves the lungs
Over time, pursed-lip breathing may help people with COPD become more active, a 2014 study found.
Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, engages the diaphragm to support breathing.
The diaphragm is a muscle in the belly that helps inflate the lungs. When a person has COPD, stale air can collect in the lungs. If this happens, there is less room for the diaphragm to contract.
A person may find it hard to use the diaphragm while breathing and rely on their back and shoulder muscles instead. However, using the diaphragm can help make breathing stronger.
This exercise helps a person utilize their diaphragm while breathing. It involves breathing in through the nose and out, more slowly, through the mouth. Breathing out should take two to three times longer than breathing in.
Here are some more specific instructions:
Sit or lie down comfortably, and put the hands on the belly.
Relax the muscles in the neck and shoulders.
Breathe in slowly through the nose, keeping the mouth closed.
Feel the lungs fill with air and inflate like a balloon as the belly moves outward.
Slowly breathe out through pursed lips.
Let the air out gently, trying to make it last longer than the inhale.
Repeat, concentrating on the belly going up and down each time.
Gently press on the belly while breathing out to encourage the diaphragm to move.
Try practicing this for 5–10 minutes each day.
Activities that help with COPD
Breathing exercises and pulmonary rehab can be life-changing for many people with COPD. And other activities may also improve breathing and the quality of life.
Singing classes
An older studyTrusted Source, from 2012, compared the effects of either singing classes or a film class for 8 weeks in people with COPD.
The singing group had improved physical well-being by the end of the study period. Though the precise cause of the improvement is unclear, the researchers suggest that combining singing classes with medical treatment and rehab might be useful for people with COPD.
The study did not identify any improvements in breathing, but singing often involves diaphragmatic breathing, which may make it a helpful complement to pulmonary rehab and pursed-lip breathing.
A 2017 reviewTrusted Source of three studies concludes that singing is likely safe for people with COPD and may improve physical health. The review does not confirm whether singing reduces shortness of breath or helps with respiratory symptoms.
Yoga
The deep breathing and poses of yoga can help with relaxation, flexibility, and mind-body wellness.
Research from 2014 suggests that doing yoga training for 3–9 monthsTrusted Source may help people with COPD improve their lung function and ability to exercise. A 2019 reviewTrusted Source supports these findings. The authors of both call for more research into the safety, long-term effects, and effects on the quality of life.
Speak with a doctor about the safety and suitability of yoga before signing up for a class.
Tai chi
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese form of martial art that focuses on gentle exercise, stretching, meditation, and mindfulness.
The authors of a 2016 reviewTrusted Source conclude that tai chi may improve a person’s breathing and ability to function overall, and that it is likely safe for people with COPD. They note that further studies into the different types of tai chi are needed.
In 2018, researchersTrusted Source had 60 people with COPD learn a modified version of 24-form tai chi, which is popular among older people in China.
The team concluded that this new, 6-form program could help:
improve lung function
reduce breathlessness
increase exercise capacity
The new program took only 3 hours to learn, was easy to follow as part of a routine, caused no reported adverse effects.
Lifestyle tips for better breathing
COPD can reduce lung function and weaken respiratory muscles. Making certain changes in a daily routine can promote lung health and may reduce the risk of the symptoms worsening.
In addition to receiving medical care, a person should considerTrusted Source:
quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
avoiding dust, fumes, and chemicals, whenever possible
washing the hands well and frequently to reduce the risk of infections
getting a flu shot and other recommended vaccines
avoiding crowds during cold and flu season
A person may wonder about the benefits of quitting smoking after they have a diagnosis of COPD. ResearchTrusted Source suggests that quitting can slow the progression of lung damage and may help prolong life.
Medical care, pulmonary rehabilitation, breathing exercises, and lifestyle choices can all help people manage COPD and be more active.
How does COPD affect breathing?
A person with COPD has emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or both.
In COPD, there is:
inflammation and thickening of the airways
a reduction in air flowing in and out of the lungs
low oxygen levels in the body
difficulty removing carbon dioxide from the body
Emphysema involves tiny air sacs in the lungs collapsing, stretching, or being destroyed, due to lung damage. This causes problems with gas exchange — the lungs become unable to take in enough oxygen, so a person may feel out of breath at rest or while exercising.
Chronic bronchitis involves inflammation in the airways. This leads to excess mucus production and clogging, which make it harder for the lungs to move air in and out.
Even light activity can cause a person with COPD to feel out of breath, and symptoms tend to worsen with time. This can lead to a cycle of becoming less active and feeling increasingly breathless with reduced activity.
Summary
COPD is a potentially life threatening lung condition that can make it difficult to breathe.
Pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing exercises — such as pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing — can make breathing easier, improve lung function, and boost the quality of life for people with COPD.
Quitting smoking may help slow the progression of COPD. And exercises such as tai chi and yoga may also have benefits.