Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is often caused by long-term smoking. It is a leading cause of illness and death throughout the world, according to the Mayo Clinic. COPD actually refers to a group of lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic obstructive bronchitis. The conditions block airflow and make it hard to breathe. Being overweight can add to the woes of a person who has COPD. Losing weight can help ease symptoms.
Strain on Heart and Lungs
Losing weight reduces the strain on the heart and lungs, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Breathing already requires more energy among people who suffer COPD, burning up to 10 times more calories than in a person without COPD. If a person is overweight, his lungs and heart must work even harder, and the extra weight also might demand more oxygen. People who have COPD need to consult with a healthcare provider to determine a goal weight and determine the best daily caloric intake, advises the clinic.
Lung Inflation
Losing weight can allow the lungs to inflate more fully. In people who carry excess weight around the middle, this fat can crowd the diaphragm and chest wall. This means their lungs cannot properly expand, making it feel more difficult to breathe in and out, states "COPD For Dummies" by Kevin Felner and Meg Schneider.
Overall Health Boost
People who eat well and exercise regularly as they lose weight improve overall health, strength and endurance, advises the Mayo Clinic. Exercise is vital to treatment because it helps preserve lung function, and a healthful diet boosts the immune system, advise Felner and Schneider. Strategic weight loss is important because overweight COPD patients have the same likelihood of losing muscle mass as healthy-weight COPD patients, which can be one effect of this health condition.
