Lung diseases (asthma, COPD)

Lung diseases (asthma, COPD)

Asthma is a common chronic condition in which the airways become narrow and inflamed—sometimes leading to difficulty with breathing, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It’s a condition that affects more than 25 million Americans and one that’s on many people’s minds during the COVID-19 outbreak. We can support you with medications if needed, have an action plan and talk about the evidence related to diet and asthma, how certain foods—including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods—can be beneficial.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and irreversible airway disorder usually caused by tobacco smoking. It is characterized by shortness of breath due to loss of elastic recoil of the lungs, leading to decreased total lung capacity and impaired gas exchange. COPD is the third most common cause of death in the United States.

While smoking and other exposures are strong contributors to COPD, nutritional factors may influence the likelihood of developing this condition, as well as its clinical course. A Western diet and excesses of certain macronutrients appear to increase risk. Protective roles have emerged for healthy dietary patterns, fruits, vegetables, and other sources of dietary fiber (e.g., legumes) as well as certain micronutrients (vitamins D and E) and dietary supplements. Here in Monarca Health we can help you tackle some of these risk factors, reduce lung inflammation, dilate the bronchi, and reduce airway obstruction.