People with lung disease go down many roads looking for a way to help treat their condition. Some turn to acupuncture or even yoga in hopes of breathing just a little easier.
One avenue that is showing a lot of interest is the potential of supplements. There is increased curiosity and hope in emerging data that supplements can help relieve the symptoms of lung disease.
A supplement is a product that is intended to complement a person’s diet. It usually contains one more ingredient, which may include vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and other certain substances.
Over-the-counter herbs, dietary supplements, and even food and beverages may be able to help relieve symptoms of lung disease. These can usually be taken in addition to your regular medical treatments, but you should always consult your physician before taking any herbs or supplements.
In fact, a recent study published by ScienceDaily on December 2, 2014, found that Vitamin D reduces lung disease flare-ups by over 40 percent.
Researchers from the University of London tracked 240 patients for several months and measured the impact of vitamin D supplements on lung disease flare-ups.
Patients with lung diseases, such as COPD, saw severity and duration of flare-up symptoms reduced from continued use of the vitamin D tablets.
Different herbs are also catching the eyes of lung disease patients. New data has found that herbs have been used for centuries to alleviate the constant flare-ups of lung disease.
Herbs long used for Asian traditional medicine including thyme, ivy, ginseng, and cumin, have the ability to help lung disease patients breathe easier and avoid potential flare-ups.
If you are interested, here are some other supplements that are helping some lung disease patients:
Omega-3 fatty acids can decrease inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in supplements or from food sources such as flaxseed, soybeans, canola oil, walnuts, and cold-water fatty fish.
Vitamin D and E have been found to improve lung function in some patients.
Antioxidants can help reduce stress and inflammation. Foods rich in antioxidants include red grapes, green tea, broccoli and tomatoes.
Adding eucalyptus oil to your humidifier may help as well.
If you have questions about supplements for your lung disease, consult your doctor first.
Christine Kingsley, APRN is the Health and Wellness Director at the Lung Institute where she focuses on providing helpful online resources for people looking for information on various lung diseases, breathing exercises, and healthy lifestyle choices. She advocates for holistic care that involves working with your doctor to explore all options including traditional and alternative care while focusing on diet and exercise as proactive measures.
