Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis most commonly affects people between age 50 and 70. The progressive scarring and hardening of the lung tissue, results in difficulty breathing and other symptoms such as cough and chest pain. Medications that reduce inflammation constitute the primary treatment. Lifestyle issues also factor in, such as exercising to maintain lung health and reducing stress. No special diet exists to manage IPF, but following the basic tenets of good nutrition along with some other dietary measures will certainly help.
Working with a Nutrition Professional
Good nutrition takes on paramount importance when you have a chronic disease. Conditions such as IPF, which can make it difficult to eat, can lead to nutritional deficiencies and undesirable weight loss. IPF patients with healthy appetites but a reduced capacity for physical activity, however, might have a tendency toward undesirable weigh gain. Whichever end of the spectrum you fall, consider working with a registered dietitian experienced in planning diets for this condition.She can ensure you follow a nutritionally-sound eating plan that provides all the nutrients you need and helps you maintain a healthy weight.
Recommended Foods
While it might sound boring or cliché, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and lean proteins is your best bet. Eating in this manner guarantees your body gets all the nutrients it requires, in the amounts necessary for optimal functioning. FightIPF.com, a resource for patients and medical professionals, recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, four servings of dairy or dairy alternatives rich in calcium and lean proteins such as chicken and fish. When choosing fruits and vegetables, eat a variety from across the color spectrum to get the full range of antioxidants and other beneficial substances.
Other Dietary Considerations
The Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis reports research has shown patients with IPF have an increased risk of coronary artery disease. While the exact link remains unclear, the inflammation present in this disease might increase artery damage and the amount of plaque that forms on the artery walls. Make sure to follow a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat and trans fats and rich in healthy fats such as those found in fatty fish, nuts and seeds.
Other Dietary Considerations
Most doctors give their patients the steroid prednisone to reduce inflammation, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Using this medication long-term carries a risk of hypertension, high blood sugar and osteoporosis. All of these conditions have a strong dietary component and better food choices can reduce the risk of these conditions developing. Eat less salt, refined carbohydrates and sugar and plenty of calcium-rich foods.
Eating Tips
A full stomach can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, rather than three large ones If weight gain has been an issue, drink a full glass of water before each meal to help you feel more full and avoid going long periods between meals to avoid overeating.
References
- FightIPF.com; Nutrition and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis; Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients at Risk of Coronary Artery Disease: New Study Highlights Inflammation's Role in Heart Disease; April 2004
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: How is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Treated?
