Emphysema occurs when the air sacs at the ends of your smallest air passages are gradually damaged. Smoking is the leading cause of this condition that can contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. COPD is characterized by a restricted air flow when you exhale. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chronic coughing, chest tightness, fatigue, appetite loss and weight loss. Consuming a vitamin-rich diet may be helpful to reduce or control symptoms of emphysema.
Vitamin A
A study in the 2007 issue of "Vitamins and Hormones" says that a form of vitamin A, retinoic acid, may play a role in both the prevention and treatment of emphysema. This study says that vitamin A has shown this effect in rats, but not in humans. More studies are required to establish a clear connection and benefit. You can find this vitamin in many foods including liver, whole milk, eggs, meat, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash and pumpkin.
Vitamin C
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people who have COPD often have low levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C. COPD often develops from emphysema and is characterized by similar symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. Vitamin C may be helpful in reducing these symptoms due to its antioxidant effects. Antioxidants act to protect your body from free radicals, substances that invade your body and cause cellular damage, infection and illness. Vitamin C can boost your immune strength and therefore increase your body's ability to fight your current illness. Good food sources of this vitamin include oranges, limes, melon, strawberries, bell peppers and broccoli.
Vitamin E
You may also be low in vitamin E if you have COPD, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin E also acts as an antioxidant in your body and can help boost your immune strength. To help relieve some of your symptoms, consume vitamin E-rich foods; these include olive oil, avocado, spinach, almonds and nut butters.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is another nutrient that may play a role in treating emphysema. According to Canada.com, this vitamin may be helpful in preventing and treating the common cold. The cold or the flu can be a problem for people with lung and respiratory conditions, such as emphysema. These conditions can lower the immune system and also worsen symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. Boosting your intake of vitamin D may be helpful and you find this vitamin in many foods. Good choices include fortified milk, fortified breads and cereals, salmon and leafy greens.
