Chronic disease is a general term for many types of disease, which affect millions of Americans. Here, we take a look at the scope of chronic disease and discuss the general condition known as COPD. Then, we discuss four of the most applicable supplements for COPD.
Chronic Disease Prevalence
The term “chronic disease” is a general term for many types of diseases, which have a few characteristics in common. Chronic diseases are noncommunicable, meaning that they are inert and cannot be transmitted from one individual to another. Chronic diseases are long-lasting, often complex in their causes and symptoms, are usually manageable but not curable, and usually require ongoing medical attention. Over 130 million Americans have some form of chronic disease.
A Look at COPD
COPD, short for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, refers to a chronic condition wherein the lungs experience damage, resulting in inflammation that obstructs breathing and causes irritation. Typical COPD symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing while breathing, and daily coughing due to mucus production.
A few different conditions can comprise the bodily circumstances for COPD. A COPD diagnosis is most likely to occur in someone after habitually smoking tobacco for a suspended period of time, leading to sustained lung damage. Two of the most chronic specific conditions which cause COPD are emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. Asthma, exposure to environmental toxins in the workplace, and genetic factors can also contribute to COPD. About 15 million Americans are diagnosed with COPD.
Supplements for COPD
Some herbs, vitamins, and minerals have properties that can support the lungs and mitigate symptoms in those with COPD. Here are five of the supplements best known for their ability to benefit someone with this condition:
Vitamin D is very instrumental for the proper functionality and health of the body, and supplementing with it can support lung function. Taking vitamin D is especially important because many people with COPD are low in this vitamin. It is reported that taking a vitamin D3 supplement in particular could reduce COPD flareups.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can be helpful, because these acids both support lung function and reduce bodily inflammation. Research suggests that increasing your intake of omega-3s can reduce COPD symptoms, including coughing and wheezing.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in the herb turmeric, and it is available in concentrated form as an oral supplement. Curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies show that these properties make it a worthwhile supplement for COPD because curcumin can reduce lung inflammation.
Calcium is an important mineral for healthy lung function, making it important for those with COPD. Supplementing with calcium is even more important for persons with COPD, because some COPD medications can impede the body’s ability to retain calcium.
Vitamin E taken orally is useful. That is because research shows those experiencing COPD flareups tend to have lower levels of vitamin E, compared to those whose COPD is stable. Some studies suggest that long-term vitamin E supplementation could reduce the risk of a COPD diagnosis.
If you or someone you know experiences COPD and its symptoms, consider how these five supplements could help. Some supplements can interact with certain medications, so consult your healthcare provider first, before you take a supplement.