Originally Published by Dr. Nina Cherie Franklin on You, Your Body & Your Health (http://ninacheriephd.com)
Just recently one of my Google+ friends asked me an intriguing question: "I have lung problems [and] want to do exercise but I really can’t...What can I do to stay fit?" This is not the first time I’ve got this question, as a Facebook friend asked me the exact same question pertaining to asthma.
What makes such questions intriguing to me is that in spite of lung conditions, these people are still eager to stay fit. Now, how motivational is that?
Lung conditions like chronic bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema are quite widespread. Since these conditions affect the lungs in ways that make it extremely difficult to breath, having a lung condition can considerably affect your ability to get and stay fit.
So, how exactly can one maintain an optimal level of fitness with a lung condition?
When compared to the average person, individuals with lung conditions use way more energy during breathing. Such breathing problems are primarily a result of narrowing and inflammation (swelling) of the lung's airways. Breathing difficulties are greatly amplified when exercise is thrown into the equation.
In general, sensible eating and regular physical activity are critical for good health and each can play a significant role in alleviating labored breathing and other symptoms of common lung conditions.
Here are some key nutrition and physical activity fundamentals for achieving and maintaining optimum health and fitness in spite of chronic lung problems.
