Pulmonary Physiology & Nutrition
This is the gas exchange process of Oxygen in and CO2 out that increases energy needs when respiratory muscles work harder
What is Breathing!
This macronutrient produces the most CO₂ per kcal.
Carbohydrate
COPD patients often need more ________than healthy adults.
CALORIES Sometimes 1.25-1.5 more than healthy breathing adults
This antioxidant vitamin supports lung tissue repair.
Vitamin C
This beverage is the best choice for preventing mucus from becoming thick and sticky.
WATER
Increased work of breathing raises this nutrition need.
What is Calories OR FOOD ENERGY
This macronutrient produces the least CO₂ per kcal
FAT
Name 3 gassy foods or Beverages that would create shortness of breath
Cabbage, Beer, beans
Low levels of this mineral can impair respiratory muscle function.
MAGNESIUM
Patients should limit this type of beverage because it can cause bloating and make breathing harder.
Carbonated drinks (soda, seltzer, beer)
What is the effect of malnutrition on respiratory muscle strength?
Malnutrition weakens respiratory muscles, making breathing more difficult
This nutrient strengthens breathing muscles and our immune system
PROTEIN
Are nutritional drinks helpful for pulmonary patients?
High calorie or "plus" may also means high carbs and NOT help with preventing wt loss and easier breathing
High protein and higher fat
This vitamin is linked to immune function and is often low in chronic lung disease
VITAMIN D3
These beverages can worsen reflux, which may trigger coughing in lung disease.
CARBONATED (Soda, Seltzer)
Why are small, frequent meals recommended for persons on oxygen?
What is to reduce the effort of eating and prevent shortness of breath
(Daily Double)
High‑fat, lower‑carb diets may be used in this chronic lung condition to reduce CO₂ load
COPD
This vitamin is often low in COPD patients due to steroid use.
VITAMIN D3
This trace mineral is essential for wound healing and immune support. Calcium OR Zinc
ZINC
(Daily Double)
This stimulant in coffee and energy drinks may increase heart rate and worsen shortness of breath in some patients.
CAFFEINE
Does the temperature of FOOD and Beverages affect your breathing?
Yes - too hot can burn the esophagus
Too cold can stiffen the breathing tubes
Omega 3 fatty acids are sometimes recommended to to improve breathing - What do they help do?
What is reduce inflammation and protect lung tissue
(Daily Double)
This type of malnutrition is common in COPD due to inflammation and increased energy expenditure
Cachexia
Is a multivitamin a good idea for pulmonary patients?
Probably a good idea as poor appetite and breathing difficulties prevent eating a balanced diet
Is milk a preferred beverage for people with COPD?
Not usually. Milk can make mucus feel thicker and may cause bloating, which can make breathing harder.