Managing Pulmonary Fibrosis: Dietary Tips and Treatment Options

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung condition characterized by progressive scarring of lung tissue. Symptoms include shortness of breath, dry cough, fatigue, chest discomfort, and loss of appetite. While no cure exists, proper nutrition plays a vital role in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. This article highlights essential foods to include and avoid, along with key medications like Esbriet® and OFEV® that assist in managing the disease.

Beneficial Foods
Incorporate these foods to support lung health:

Whole Grains
Options such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice are rich in fiber and nutrients that help reduce inflammation and cholesterol, aiding pulmonary function.

Lean Proteins
Consuming lean protein sources like skinless chicken, eggs, and fatty fish can strengthen respiratory muscles, easing breathing efforts. Plant-based options such as beans, peas, nuts, legumes, and tofu are also beneficial.

Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh produce including carrots, celery, spinach, berries, kiwi, and pineapple provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that enhance lung health and reduce inflammation. They also support digestion with high fiber content.

Foods to Avoid
Certain foods may exacerbate pulmonary fibrosis symptoms:

Fried Foods
Items like French fries, fried chicken, and chips can irritate the throat, trigger coughs, and cause bloating, which hampers breathing. Excess fats can also contribute to weight gain, worsening respiratory difficulty.

Cured Meats
Preserved meats such as bacon, hot dogs, ham, and salami contain nitrates that can damage lung tissue. It's advisable to limit or avoid these to prevent symptom aggravation.

Medical Treatments for Pulmonary Fibrosis
Alongside dietary management, medications can help control disease progression:

Esbriet® (pirfenidone)
This prescribed medication may slow lung scarring and is often recommended for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

OFEV® (nintedanib)
Approved by the FDA, OFEV® reduces the decline in lung function and is typically taken twice daily in pill form.