Diagnostic Methods And Treatments For Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Follow A Healthy Diet

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients may need to change their diet to include more healthy foods for their treatment efforts to be effective. Consuming a healthy diet can help patients obtain and keep a healthy body mass index. Body mass is important in lung disease because excess weight puts unnecessary pressure on the heart and lungs that can cause a faster disease progression. A low sodium diet is also recommended because it reduces excess fluid retention, making it easier for the lungs to fill with air. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients are also advised to consume several smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals. This practice helps reduce the restriction of the lungs from filling with air due to an expanded stomach. An individual who uses supplemental oxygen as part of their treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is also advised to use their oxygen while they are eating and digesting their meals.