Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term for a group of chronic lung conditions including chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma, and emphysema. Several supplements and remedies may help ease COPD symptoms.

People with COPD find it increasingly difficult to breathe. Among other symptoms, they may experience coughing, wheezing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.

Nutrition is very important for the 15.7 million peopleTrusted Source in the United States with a COPD diagnosis.

According to the COPD Foundation, people with COPD may need 430–720 more calories per day than other people due to the effort they need to exert breathing.

In fact, 25–40%Trusted Source of people with COPD are also dealing with malnutrition, which interferes with their long-term outlook.

At present, there is no cure for COPD. However, the American Lung Association suggests that eating a high fat, low carbohydrate diet can be helpful for people with breathing problems.

There are also several supplements and remedies people with COPD can try to support their medical treatment and help them manage their condition. Keep reading to learn more.

Vitamins

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ResearchersTrusted Source have identified the following vitamins for COPD treatment and support:

1. Vitamin D

Many people with COPD have low vitamin D. Taking vitamin D supplements may help the lungs function better.

Taking vitamin D3 supplements for COPD can also protect against moderate or severe flare-ups.

2. Vitamin C

Low levels of vitamin C are linked to increases in shortness of breath, mucus, and wheezing.

3. Vitamin E

People experiencing a flare-up of COPD symptoms tend to have lower levels of vitamin E than people whose COPD is stable.

Other studies suggest that long-term use of vitamin E supplements may help prevent COPD.

4. Vitamin A

An older review notes one study found individuals with the highest intake of vitamin A had a 52%Trusted Source lower risk of COPD.

Minerals

Researchers have identified the following minerals for COPD treatment and support:

5. Magnesium

Magnesium supports lung function, but some COPD medications may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb it.

People should also exercise caution when taking magnesium supplements for COPD. It can interfere with some drugs and cause side effects.

6. Calcium

Calcium can help the lungs function, but some COPD medications may cause the body to lose calcium. This makes it even more important for people with COPD to consider increasing calcium-rich foods in their diet.

If a person cannot reach their calcium needs through diet, it may be necessary to take a calcium supplement.

Other supplements

Researchers have identified the following additional supplements for COPD treatment and support:

7. Omega-3 fatty acids

Increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation in people with COPD. Although omega-3s are present in fish, seeds, and nuts, some people take fish oil supplements to make sure they get enough of this nutrient.

8. Dietary fiber

Eating more dietary fiber may leadTrusted Source to a lower risk of COPD.

9. Herbal teas

Many people with COPD use the following teas to help reduce their symptoms:

• green tea
• chamomile tea
• lemon balm tea
• lime tea
• linseed tea
• sage tea
• thyme tea
• mallow tea
• rosehip tea
• mint tea

In fact, some research has shown that drinking green tea at least twice per day may reduce the risk of developing COPD.

10. Curcumin

Present in turmeric, curcumin is sometimes called a natural anti-inflammatory.

Some research suggests it may help treat the inflammation of the airways in COPD.

Read about some natural remedies for COPD here.

When to see a doctor

COPD is chronic and progressive, which means it does not go away and tends to get worse with time. People with COPD need to meet with their doctor regularly to monitor and manage their condition.

Even though prescription drugs cannot reverse the gradual decline in breathing capacity, they can help people with COPD manage their symptoms.

Also, getting regular flu shots can help people with COPD prevent illnesses that could cause serious complications. For these reasons, people with COPD need regular medical care.

Although taking supplements for COPD can be helpful, people with this condition need to speak with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional about all the supplements they are taking or planning to take.

Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other products may interact and interfere with COPD medications. They can also cause side effects.

Summary

COPD is a serious and chronic health condition.

Although there is currently no cure for this condition, medical treatment can help people manage their symptoms. Using herbal and nutritional supplements for COPD may also help with symptom management.

Before taking any supplements, a