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Nutrition for Bronchitis
ShareNutrition is essential in avoiding a compromised immune system, and can also help you evade or recover from a chest infection such as bronchitis. A balanced diet is essential in helping to maintain all the essential body processes, which need to be operating efficiently to ward off illness and disease.
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an infection of the respiratory system, and is characterised by inflamed and congested airways – particularly of the bronchi. There is also often an excess of mucous produced, which can seriously impair breathing and lead to a severe cough. It is typically treated with rest, though if it is persistent or the condition worsens it may need treatment with antibiotics. Bronchitis can pose a serious health risk to the young, infirm or elderly if it is not treated in a timely manner. Some common symptoms of bronchitis include:
- Painful breathing
- Coughing
- Chest pains
- Breathlessness
- Phlegm
- A sore throat
- Fever; and
- Listlessness
What is Nutrition?
Nutrition describes the components of your diet, and what you eat on a day to day basis. Having what is termed a balanced diet involves daily consumption of a range of food groups, whilst avoiding or limiting other foods or food elements. Vitamins and minerals are especially crucial and are considered essential nutrients, and are crucial to the growth and development of our bodies and the processes that sustain life. The elements of a healthy, balanced diet should include consumption of the following foods or food groups on a daily basis:
- Plenty of fluids, particularly water
- Lean meats
- Grains and pulses
- Fruits; and
- Vegetables
Foods to limit in your diet include refined sugars, salt, alcohol and saturated fats.
How Can Nutrition Help Bronchitis?
Having a robust immune system goes a long way to ensuring that you remain healthy and free of disease and infection. If you are suffering from bronchitis a consultation with a nutritionist may well be beneficial. Nutritionists are trained in the nutritive value of foods, and the role they play in the prevention of disease. They will analyse your current diet and recommend a number of adjustments, including the addition of dietary supplements to your daily routine. A nutritionist can also help advise on a range of other conditions, including: high blood pressure, diabetes, eating disorders and weight issues.
Find out about other effective natural treatments for bronchitis.
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