Home - Health - Healthy Foods For Managing Pulmonary Fibrosis

Healthy Foods for Managing Pulmonary Fibrosis

Healthy Foods for Managing Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung condition in which the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiff over time. The disorder makes breathing difficult, eventually leading to respiratory failure if ignored. The possible causes of pulmonary fibrosis include exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, infection, and autoimmune diseases. While there are several treatments to manage the symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life, following a healthy, balanced food regime is also essential.

Foods for managing pulmonary fibrosis
Patients should consult a doctor or nutritionist when creating a tailored nutrition plan, as the best foods for pulmonary fibrosis can vary depending on the kind of symptoms and their severity. Here is an overview of the foods health experts usually recommend for this condition:

Beans and pulses
Beans and pulses like chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, and white beans are rich in plant-based protein. Protein plays a vital role in managing pulmonary fibrosis. It helps strengthen the lung muscles and keeps the symptoms at bay. While chicken and meat are also excellent sources of proteins, beans and pulses are good alternatives for those who do not prefer animal products. Of course, protein should be balanced with fat and carbohydrates, as excess can lead to other problems.

Besides being rich in protein, beans and pulses are high in fiber, folate, iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients can help improve overall health and reduce inflammation associated with pulmonary fibrosis.

Fruits and vegetables
Adding a variety of fruits and vegetables to the nutrition plan is one of the best things patients can do to manage pulmonary fibrosis. At least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily are essential for maintaining good health. Fruits and veggies provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that can support lung health. They also have antioxidants and fiber, which are essential for fighting diseases and maintaining overall health.

While patients can include various fruits in their meals, apples, bananas, berries, and citrus fruits are perhaps the most beneficial. Apples are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and phytonutrients, making them ideal for reducing inflammation and improving respiratory health. Bananas are full of potassium and vitamin B6, which help reduce lung inflammation. They are also a great energy source and can be enjoyed as a snack. Berries like raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries have antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall respiratory health. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help reduce lung inflammation.

The best vegetable options are broccoli, cabbage, carrots, kale, and tomatoes. These are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and potent antioxidants that promote lung health and help manage pulmonary fibrosis.

Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are essential to any food regimen but are especially important for people with pulmonary fibrosis. Carbs give the body the energy to stay active and healthy. However, people with this health condition must choose the right kinds of carbs.

Whole grains are an excellent choice because they are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that promote overall health. One can consider whole-grain bread, pasta, and cereals. Patients can also acquire carbs from whole fruits and vegetables. Besides carbohydrates, fruits and veggies are excellent sources of other essential nutrients, making them wholesome options.

When shopping for carbs, choosing the higher-fiber versions is essential. Fiber helps keep a person full for longer and provides more vitamins and minerals. Some high-fiber carbohydrates include green beans, kale, peppers, sweet potatoes, and spinach.

Dairy products and their alternatives
Those dealing with pulmonary fibrosis should consume dairy products in moderation. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products have vitamin D and other healthy nutrients but are high in fat and calories, which can make breathing difficult for people with pulmonary fibrosis. To reduce this risk, patients should opt for low-fat and low-sugar varieties of dairy products.

People following a vegan meal plan and those who are lactose intolerant can consider non-dairy alternatives to dairy products, such as soy, almond, coconut, and rice milk. Soy milk is rich in protein and provides maximum benefits when managing pulmonary fibrosis. Other plant-based milk varieties, such as almond, coconut, and rice milk, are low in fat and calories and can provide essential nutrients. Additionally, fortified plant-based milk provides calcium, vitamin D, and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Choosing low-fat and low-sugar dairy products and plant-based alternatives can help patients manage pulmonary fibrosis without missing out on the taste of dairy products.

Unsaturated oils
Unsaturated oils are an inseparable part of a healthy food regimen and can benefit those with pulmonary fibrosis. They contain essential fatty acids that help improve the function of the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve cell structure. Olive oil, avocado oil, and walnut oil are the best examples of unsaturated oils. Olive oil has monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. It also contains phenolic compounds that can help protect against oxidative damage. Besides monounsaturated fats, avocado oil contains high amounts of vitamin E. Walnut oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Adding a few drops of these oils to salads or dishes can significantly increase their nutritional value while keeping calorie intake low.

Those who develop the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis should visit a doctor for a confirmed diagnosis. The condition is usually diagnosed through a combination of tests, including chest X-rays and spirometry (an assessment of breathing capacity). After the diagnosis is confirmed, doctors may recommend treatments like surgery and radiation therapy, depending on the situation. Sometimes, breathing difficulty could be a symptom of cystic fibrosis, which causes excess mucus buildup in the lungs. The medical treatments for cystic fibrosis can differ.

Previous Read

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Next Read

5 Conditions That Can Trigger Hair Loss

Hair loss is a universal problem that affects many people. While some amount of hair loss is normal and is brought on by age, lifestyle, or genetics, severe hair loss may indicate an underlying health condition. Further, treating the condition can, at times, help reduce hair loss or stop it from worsening. Here are a few conditions that can trigger the loss of hair and the management options to deal with it: Understanding hair loss While there is no permanent cure for hair loss, certain treatment options and therapeutic measures can help manage the condition. Many may experience mild to moderate hair loss at some point, but severe hair loss is a much more serious condition requiring treatment. The prognosis for someone who experiences severe hair loss depends on the degree of damage. If one loses a significant amount of hair, it may be difficult to reverse the damage. However, scalp treatments, supplements, surgery, or hair transplant can help restore hair growth. If the cause is unknown or if hair remains unaffected by treatment, doctors may be unable to predict a clear outcome. Here, seeking psychological support may be necessary to help manage the emotional impact of hair loss. In any case, it is essential to consult a doctor to understand the cause of hair loss and explore the best treatment options. With proper care and support, one can manage the condition and restore hair growth to a certain extent. Conditions that trigger hair loss While usually not a serious concern in itself, losing hair can cause significant psychological stress. Further, hair loss can indicate poor health or existing conditions. Here are a few health conditions that can trigger hair loss: Alopecia areata Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that results in bald patches on the scalp and other parts of the body. The exact cause of this condition is not known, but it is believed to be linked to genetics, stress, and environmental factors.  Management options: When it comes to alopecia areata treatments, one can find many options, ranging from topical treatments like creams or lotions that help slow down or stop hair loss to supplements that can help promote hair growth. Additionally, doctors may recommend light therapy and immunotherapy as treatment options for alopecia areata. Further, lifestyle changes such as stress management and following a balanced meal plan may also benefit those dealing with alopecia areata. However, seeking emotional support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals is essential, as this condition can take an emotional toll. With the right combination of treatments and lifestyle changes, alopecia areata can be managed. Anemia Anemia is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body, resulting in fatigue and other symptoms. While there are many types of anemia, the most common is iron deficiency anemia, which develops when the body does not get enough iron to produce hemoglobin. Hair loss is a common symptom of anemia, as the lack of oxygen to the hair follicles can cause them to weaken and fall out. Sometimes, anemia-related hair loss can be severe, with significant hair thinning and bald spots. Fortunately, it is usually reversible if the underlying anemia is treated. Management options: The most crucial step in treating anemia-related hair loss is identifying and treating the underlying cause. If the anemia is brought on by iron deficiency, doctors will likely recommend increasing the intake of iron-rich foods such as red meat, fish, spinach, and beans. Additionally, they may prescribe iron supplements or vitamin B12 shots to help increase red blood cell count. In more severe cases, blood transfusions or other supplements may be required to treat the anemia. Lupus Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can cause severe hair loss. Here, the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation. Lupus can cause hair follicles to become damaged or stop producing hair. The most common symptoms of lupus are joint pain, fatigue, rashes, fever, and extreme sun sensitivity. Hair loss is a less common, yet likely, symptom of the condition. Management options: Treatments for lupus-related hair loss include prescriptions that suppress the immune system. These options can reduce inflammation and help prevent further damage to the hair follicles. It is important to note that while treatment can help reduce the effects of lupus-related hair loss, there is no cure for the condition itself. Living with lupus may require long-term management of symptoms and healthcare. Telogen effluvium Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that develops due to a disruption in the normal growth cycle of the hair. It is characterized by a sudden, widespread thinning of hair on the scalp. This can be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, treatment options, and illness. Here, more hair follicles than usual enter the telogen (resting) phase of the cycle, eventually falling out or becoming thinner. Fortunately, telogen effluvium is generally temporary, and its effects are typically reversed with time. In some cases, however, there may be some permanent hair loss. Management options: When dealing with telogen effluvium, in addition to prescription options, lifestyle changes (such as stress management and better nutrition) and supplements can stimulate new hair growth. Thyroid disease Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much or too little hormones. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may lead to thinning hair and even baldness, while an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause hair to fall out rapidly. If one observes sudden or severe hair loss along with changes in energy levels and body temperature, they should consider consulting a doctor regarding thyroid health. Management options: Treatment for thyroid-related hair loss depends on the underlying cause. If the hair loss is triggered by hypothyroidism, hormone therapy may be recommended. On the other hand, if hair loss is caused by hyperthyroidism, supplements may be prescribed. Additionally, topical creams, shampoos, and light therapy may help manage the disease. One should consult a doctor to understand the side effects before initiating any treatment.

Trending Articles

01

Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
03

Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
04

Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

Our Blogs

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

ADHD, short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects children worldwide, and this also often carries on into their adulthood. Some of the different problems faced by kids suffering from ADHD include sustaining attention for a long time, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. There might be other problems associated with ADHD, like low self-esteem, low grades in school, and difficulty in keeping up with relationships. More often than not, symptoms of ADHD are seen to have decreased with age. However, there are cases wherein ADHD symptoms never subside. Levels of ADHD There are three different levels or stages at which ADHD can affect individuals. They are: Predominantly inattentive ADHD This level of ADHD may be related to missing details very easily and getting distracted often. Also, one may get bored very quickly. One has difficulty in processing new information, and there is also the tendency to not listen properly. One might not be able to follow directions very clearly and also lose things like pencils or papers. It has been observed that girls are more likely to get inattentive ADHD than boys. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD This is mostly associated with symptoms like restlessness and difficulty with sitting still. Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have a tendency to talk consistently, and it’s less likely that they will engage in quiet activities.
Read More
Understanding skin aging

Understanding skin aging

Changes in the skin are one of the biggest signs that the body is aging. But how the aging of skin takes place depends on a lot of factors such as our diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the like. For example, if you smoke regularly, it can lead to the production of free radicals, which damage healthy skin cells and cause wrinkles. So, let’s dig a little deeper into skin aging so that you can diagnose it and prevent it for as long as possible. Stages of skin aging As you age, you will start noticing changes in your skin. These changes take place in phases or stages. Learning about these phases can allow you to take better care of your skin and stay away from everything that can prove to be harmful to it. So, these stages of skin aging are: Stage I – Between 25 and 35 years This is the time when your skin will look extremely voluminous to you. But, this is also the time when the early signs of aging will start to appear. Therefore, it is important that you follow a good skincare regime. Some wrinkles can start appearing on the forehead. Lines can also start to appear on the face when you make normal expressions such as laughing, smiling, or frowning.
Read More
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

There are three terms that one can relate to addiction – reward, motivation, and memory. Addiction is when the body craves a behavior or substance in an obsessive pursuit of a reward. The person will have little concern about the consequences of the particular behavior or substance. Things to note in case of addiction Some of the attributes that one can relate with addiction include an inability to stay away from the substance, lack of self-control, an outrageous desire for the substance or behavior, ignorance towards the problems that the behavior might be causing, and a growing tendency to ignore the emotional response. Addictions have been known to interfere with daily life and there are also cases of relapse and remission. The complications of addiction can be physical, emotional, as well as financial. Stages of addiction There are five main stages of addiction. These include: Experimentation Every addiction starts with experimentation and during this stage, one cannot understand that this is the beginning of an addiction. One cannot be sure that this will turn into something serious, and hence no necessary steps are taken at this stage. A simple way to find out how this will turn into addiction is understanding the reason for experimenting and how often a person experiments with new substances.
Read More
Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Incurring debt is really common in this age and era as everything has become extremely expensive, from college education to owing a house. If you ever feel that your debt is too large and you may not be able to pay it in time, then you can seek the help of a debt settlement company. These companies essentially communicate with your creditor to try and lower your debt and the rest of it is typically forgiven. Given below is a list of the top 9 debt settlement companies in the USA. National Debt Relief If you have USD 7,500 or more in debt, then the National Debt Relief can be a great choice for you. It is one of the most prominent debt settlement companies in the country. The initial consultation is offered for free, but you will have to pay 15-25% of the settled debt amount as a fee. Freedom Debt Relief This a dedicated company that offers debt relief services to people who have at minimum USD 7,500 to USD 10,000 in debt. 15-25% of the settle debt amount is charged as fee once a settlement is negotiated, and in return, they offer the possibility of settling the debt within 24-48 months.
Read More
Allergies – Stages and prevention

Allergies – Stages and prevention

The immune system of our bodies is constantly fighting against viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy. However, in certain cases, the immune system may also end up fighting some substances that are not always harmful. When this happens, you experience an allergic reaction. The allergens are the substances that cause the reactions. With a little carefulness, you can prevent the allergies effectively. The allergic development Even though an allergic reaction can vary from person to person, it generally progresses in the same five stages: Stage 1 The allergen enters your body through food, air, or touch, and contact the cells in your body. Stage 2 Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, which is a type of antibody. Stage 3 This antibody enters your gastrointestinal tract or respiratory tract but does not do anything. Stage 4 The next time when you are exposed to the same allergen, the immunoglobulin E treats it as a harmful substance and reacts with it. Stage 5 24 hours after the reaction, the immune system cells move towards the areas that were affected to release certain chemicals to treat it. How to diagnose allergies Your allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor. Before visiting him or her, you must recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Read More
Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia is a kind of medical condition in which an adequate amount of oxygen fails to reach one’s body’s tissues owing to the deficiency of red blood cells in their body. When one suffers from this condition, their body feels weak and exhausted all the time. Symptoms There are different kinds of anemia and each of them has a cause of its own. It can have short-term or long-term effects and the disease can be mild or severe in nature. If one sees any symptoms suggesting that point toward anemia, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately. The signs vary from person to person and depend on the cause or their origin. Sometimes, the chronic disease causes anemia and the doctor ends up diagnosing the disease but the fact that one is suffering from anemia does not show up in the test. Sometimes, there are mild symptoms and then, with time the symptoms become more prominent indicating that the disease has penetrated one’s body more deeply. Some of the commonly found symptoms include breathing difficulties, fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, headache, dizziness, hands and feet turning cold, irregular heartbeat, and pain in the chest . Types of anemia Iron deficiency anemia This is the most common kind of anemia, which occurs due to iron deficiency.
Read More