Recovering from pneumonia can be difficult. For some, healing can take up to six months. While there is no special diet that can help cure pneumonia faster, eating a variety of nutritious foods can help keep your immune system strong and your energy up while you recover. Read on to learn more about the best foods for pneumonia.
What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection that occurs in the lungs. The infection can be bacterial, viral, or fungal and causes fluid or pus to build up in the alveoli, the small sacs in the lungs that carry oxygen and carbon dioxide from the blood, depending on the condition. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).
Symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on your health and the underlying cause of your infection, and may include the following, according to the NHLBI:
- Cough, sometimes with production of mucus.
- Fever
- difficulty breathing
- Shivers
- Chest pain
- headaches
- Perspiration
- Fatigue
Check with your doctor if you experience these symptoms. Children, adults over 65 years of age, and people with a compromised immune system are especially vulnerable to pneumonia-related complications and should receive immediate care.
Your doctor may perform a physical exam, as well as special tests, such as an x-ray or sputum test (i.e. a mucus sample test), to give you the correct diagnosis.
How to treat pneumonia
The method of treating pneumonia will often depend on its cause. For example, if your infection is bacterial, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, or if it is fungal, your doctor may recommend an antifungal medication.
If it is a virus, you may simply need rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, or, if shortness of breath is extreme and blood oxygen levels are low, oxygen therapy. Some people require hospitalization if they are immunocompromised and their pneumonia causes secondary complications.
Some doctors may recommend that you get vaccinated against the flu and pneumococcus to protect yourself from getting pneumonia, depending on the American Academy of Family Physicians.
What to eat and drink for pneumonia
If pneumonia is causing loss of appetite, it is best to focus on fluids. Increasing your fluid intake will keep you hydrated and can loosen mucus in your lungs, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Some drinks to incorporate include low-sugar juices, soups and broths, or herbal teas. These can help you get some calories and small amounts of vitamins, minerals and protein. You can also try making protein shakes with fruits, vegetables, and protein powder to stay nourished.
Each person’s hydration needs are different, but depending on Mayo ClinicThe average adult should consume between 11.5 and 15.5 cups of liquid per day.
Foods to eat when you have pneumonia
After a few days of rest, hydration, and taking your prescribed medications, you may begin to feel better and have a better appetite. Focus on balanced, nutrient-dense meals to support your immune system and energy. According Asthma + Lung United KingdomThis means adding:
- Fruits and vegetables for infection-fighting vitamins and minerals.
- Whole grains and nutritious carbohydrates such as brown rice, oats, and whole wheat bread for energy and digestion.
- Lean proteins such as beans, fish and poultry to support muscle strength
- Low-fat dairy products for protein and calcium.
- Healthy fats to provide vitamin A and E that support the immune system
You may find it easier to eat small meals and snacks throughout the day, especially during the first few weeks of your recovery, to get the good nutrition your body needs. As you begin to feel better, you can begin to eat as you normally would.
What about dairy?
You may be surprised to see dairy among the foods for healthy lungs. While some people say dairy increases mucus production, Asthma + Lung UK reports that there is no scientific evidence linking dairy to respiratory problems. As such, the only reason to avoid dairy is if you have a lactose allergy or intolerance.
Many people still find that eating things like ice cream, milk, or cheese thickens their mucus, making it difficult to control. But this can be easily solved by drinking water after eating.
Unless your doctor recommends eliminating dairy from your diet, keeping products like milk and cheese in your rotation can provide essential nutrients and protein, depending on your diet. Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy.
Other nutritional tips for lung health
Some observational studies have found that following the Mediterranean diet It is associated with better lung health, especially among those with underlying lung health problems or those who have smoked. This includes things like healthy fats, fish, lean poultry, fruits, vegetables, and nuts and seeds.
Of course, eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet, as well as regularly monitoring your lung health with a pulmonologist, can also help improve your long-term health.
