When diagnosed with lung diseases or conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, you might have to make a few lifestyle changes to cope with it. Additionally, certain dietary changes might also be required as there are numerous foods that could trigger your symptoms or make the existing ones worse.

Listed below are a few foods that cause breathing issues. These should be avoided if you have lung problems of any sort or frequently find yourself unable to take a proper breath.

1. Certain vegetables
Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and radish are known as cruciferous vegetables. These types of vegetables have been known to cause gas and bloating that can result in breathing issues. Although packed with fiber and nutrients, if you notice that your condition is aggravated when you consume these, then they are best avoided.

2. Carbonated drinks
Beverages such as beer, sparkling wines and cider, and sodas contain plenty of sugar and empty calories and are among the foods that cause breathing issues. Also, the gas in these carbonated drinks can increase bloating, which increases the pressure on the lungs resulting in breathing difficulties. Hence, it might be better to opt for drinks that have no added gas or better yet, drink plain water.

3. Foods that are acidic
Foods that are acidic such as citrus fruits, juices, tomatoes, and tomato-based products can affect the functioning of the esophageal sphincter. This muscle at the base of the esophagus or food pipe prevents the backflow of stomach acid. When it does not function properly it can result in acid reflux, which causes issues with breathing. In addition to acidic foods other foods that cause breathing issues and heartburn are coffee and spicy foods.

4. Salt
Excessive consumption of salt can cause water retention, which could result in breathing difficulties. If you do suffer from lung conditions that impact your breathing it might be best to flavor your food using herbs and spices. Salt is a common ingredient in packaged foods; hence, ensure that you read the labels to confirm salt content before you make a purchase.

5. Cold cuts
Cured meats such as ham, bacon, and hotdogs are also among the foods that cause breathing issues. This is because they contain nitrates to increase their shelf-life and to improve their color to make them look more appetizing. According to a study in the European Respiratory Journal, nitrates can increase the risk of hospital readmission among those suffering from COPD.

6. Fried foods
Foods that are fried such as onion rings, fried chicken, and all sorts of crunch potato preparations are loaded with unhealthy fats that not only increase bad cholesterol levels but can also cause bloating, which results in breathing issues. Excessive consumption of these foods can additionally result in weight gain. An increase in weight increases the pressure on the lungs, making it hard to breathe. Hence, opt to grill, bake or sauté food using minimal oil or fat.

Avoiding these foods can prevent a flare-up of symptoms and make it a bit easier to cope with your condition. Keeping them in mind and restricting or avoiding their consumption altogether might be the best for a speedy recovery.