Nutrition and lung disease                                                                  

Sometimes, symptoms of lung diseases can lead to difficulties with eating. Here is some guidance to help manage symptoms.

Some people experience weight loss or weight gain as a result of their symptoms, medications or changed energy (calorie) needs. If this is the case for you, additional dietary information should be provided to help you manage your weight change.

 If you have dry mouth

• Soft foods can be easier to manage, particularly if you add gravy or sauces.
• Suck ice cubes or lollies.
• Boiled sweets, mints, chewing gum or citrus fruits can be used to stimulate saliva production.
• Artificial saliva sprays or gels can help to alleviate dry mouth.
• Avoid adding salt to food.
• Make sure you are drinking enough – six to eight cups a day – to avoid dehydration.

 If you have shortness of breath

• Check if your medications are taken at the best times to help you at mealtimes – discuss with your nurse or doctor.
• Choose soft foods which require less chewing.

If you struggle with tiredness

• Save your energy, rest before and after meals if needed.
• Convenience foods may help, these could include frozen foods or ready meals.
• Accept help with meal preparation if it is offered.
• Perhaps you can have meal delivery to your home, ask your nurse or dietitian for more information if you are interested.

If you feel full quickly or have lost your appetite

• Try eating four to six small meals a day if you are unable to manage large meals.
• Enrich foods with added butter or margarine, cheese and cream.
• Avoid filling up on drinks before you have your meals.
• Ask for further information about this from your nurse or dietitian.

If you have poor fitting dentures

Sometimes dentures can become poor fitting and uncomfortable, which can make eating difficult. See your dentist for a new fitting.

If you experience bad tastes

• This can be the result of medications.
• Make sure you brush your teeth regularly and consider using mouthwash.

If you have unwanted weight gain

• Aim for regular meals.
• Set realistic targets for dietary changes to lose weight.
• Ask for more information about this from your nurse or dietitian.