Lung damage caused by various lung conditions can be irreversible and progressive. As such, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) does not have a cure, but the condition can be efficiently managed by incorporating certain lifestyle and dietary changes. Here are some of the common diet mistakes that patients with COPD should avoid:

• Eating fried foods:  Food substances tend to become extra greasy when they are fried, causing a higher workload on the digestive system that leads to bloating. Bloating can cause significant discomfort in patients, which further leads to increased difficulty in breathing. The difficulty occurs due to the incapability of the diaphragm to expand, as any expansion would cause pain due to the extra gas produced by the digestive juices. Fried foods can trigger the symptoms of COPD and should be strictly left out of the diet for patients. In addition to triggering the symptoms, fried foods lead to the accumulation of fat in the torso, increasing the pressure on the diaphragm and difficulty in breathing. As it has harmful effects both in the short and long term, avoiding them would be for the best.
• The consumption of dairy products:  While milk is considered to be a complete food because of its high nutritional value, it can trigger the symptoms of COPD in some people. A chemical called casomorphine is released on the breakdown of milk in the body, which, in turn, increases mucus production. The primary way of eliminating mucus from the body is by pushing it out through cough, but in the case of COPD patients, coughing and sneezing can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. So, including dairy products like buttermilk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and ice cream is a common diet mistake for COPD patients. Instead, one can opt for alternatives like soy milk or almond milk.
• Including cured meats and cold cuts in the diet:  Preservatives known as nitrates are commonly present in processed meats as they help extend their shelf life. While they are not healthy for anyone, they can be particularly harmful to COPD patients as they worsen lung health. So, processed meats, including hot dogs, bacon, ham, and other cold cuts, should be strictly reduced in the diet for COPD patients. As every individual reacts differently, understanding the effects of a particular food or working with a dietician can give a better idea of the diet that a COPD patient should follow.
• The consumption of cruciferous vegetables:  Cruciferous vegetables are known to be rich in fiber, which leads to gas and the development of indigestion and bloating. A diet mistake common among patients with COPD is consuming vegetables like radishes, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, bok choy, broccoli, kale, cabbage, arugula, and collard greens. Limiting the servings of these vegetables is advised for easing the symptoms.