If you experience constant shortness of breath, coughing, or chest pain, you likely have a respiratory disease, such as nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infection, pulmonary edema, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It is important for you to seek diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. For example, a doctor can perform an NTM lung disease test and prescribe medication such as the ABRYSVO vaccine to prevent lower respiratory tract disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in people 60 years of age and older, or Ribavirin drug for treatment of active RSV infection. Your doctor may also suggest modifications to your diet, cutting out foods such as:

1. Soda
People who have lung disease should avoid drinking soda, since it can exacerbate their condition in various different ways. For example, the carbonation in soda can lead to symptoms such as gas and bloating, which can make it more difficult to breathe. Moreover, the high sugar content in soda can lead to an increase in inflammation and weight gain, making lung disease symptoms even worse. To cut down on your consumption of carbonated drinks, try substituting them with other flavored liquids that aren’t carbonated, like flavored tea, natural fruit juice, or flavored water. Ideally, though, you should be drinking water more often than any other beverage.

2. Dairy products
Casomorphin, a breakdown product of milk digestion, contributes to an increase in the amount of phlegm and mucus produced by the body. This might trigger coughing, increasing the likelihood of COPD patients experiencing wheezing and pain. Switching from cow’s milk to milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk can help you effectively cut back on your consumption of dairy products.

3. Salty foods
Sodium promotes fluid retention, including in the lungs, causing shortness of breath in lung disease patients. Reduce the amount of salty seasonings you use (try substituting herbs and spices for salt) and check the labels on the foods you purchase to ensure they do not contain more than 300 mg of sodium per serving.

4. Processed meats
Nitrates are frequently added to cold cuts and cured meat for coloring and shelf-life extension. However, these nitrates have been proven to increase the rates at which patients struggling with lung disease are readmitted to the hospital. To decrease your consumption of processed meats, avoid deli meat and always check for a “no nitrates added” label when purchasing meat.

5. Fried foods
Fried meals, such as french fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, or any form of fried meats,  contain harmful fats that can induce bloating and discomfort by pulling on the diaphragm. These foods also include unhealthy sodium levels. Additionally, fried meals, over time, can lead to elevated cholesterol levels and weight gain, which can make symptoms of respiratory illness more severe. Steer clear of fast-food restaurants and meals served through drive-thrus to cut down on your consumption of fried foods. Ideally, try to cook a healthy meal at home instead whenever you have the time.