Discover effective dietary strategies and medications to manage pulmonary fibrosis. Learn which foods support lung health, which to avoid, and how medications like Esbriet® assist in treatment. Proper nutrition can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those with this chronic lung condition.

Dietary Tips for Supporting Patients with Lung Fibrosis

Lung fibrosis is a long-term condition where lung tissue becomes scarred, causing breathing difficulties, chronic cough, fatigue, chest tightness, and appetite loss. Although no cure exists, proper diet can significantly help manage symptoms. This article outlines key foods to include or avoid, along with medications like Esbriet® that assist in treatment for lung fibrosis.

Foods to Include

Support your lung health with these selections:

Whole grains

Oats, quinoa, and brown rice offer fiber and vital nutrients that lower cholesterol and decrease inflammation, improving quality of life for patients.

Lean proteins

Proteins like skinless chicken, eggs, and fatty fish support respiratory muscles and facilitate easier breathing. Plant-based options such as beans, nuts, legumes, and tofu are also highly beneficial.

Fruits and vegetables

Eating a variety of colorful produce like carrots, spinach, berries, kiwi, and pineapples supplies antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for lung health and alleviating symptoms. These foods are also high in fiber, aiding digestion.

Foods to avoid

Some foods may worsen lung fibrosis symptoms:

Fried foods

Fried items like fries, fried chicken, and chips can cause throat irritation, bloating, and stomach issues, making breathing harder. They may also lead to weight gain, which can further hinder respiratory capacity.

Cured meats

Processed meats with nitrates, including bacon, hot dogs, ham, and salami, may harm lung tissue and intensify symptoms due to their preservatives.

Medical treatments for lung fibrosis

Drugs such as Esbriet® (pirfenidone) and OFEV® (nintedanib) are commonly prescribed. Esbriet® aims to slow lung scarring, while OFEV® helps prevent rapid decline in lung function, both crucial for symptom management and disease control.