It is always important to know what is going on in the world of COPD/Asthma, hence a weekly (at the minimum) posting of ‘Notes to Know about COPD/Asthma’ – because those of us battling the issue should always be up to date on what is going on, and that includes both the positives and the negatives of the COPD/Asthma life.

This is one posting meant for so many who claim that ‘without their coffee look out’ and those who find coffee and its various forms of make are just what makes a meal that much more special.  And while it is not a particularly lengthy write of information, it may make you think.

Special Note – Unlike most of the issues shared in ‘Notes to Know’, I do not have any special personal interest in it as I have never been a coffee drinker and most likely never will be.  Coffee is just one item that no matter how often I tried it and no matter how or what it was made I just never cared for it for some reason or another.  But knowing so many coffee drinkers I thought this would be good for the crowd sort of speak.

With that, read on and see if you can relate to this read of coffee and COPD/Asthma.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Caffeine and COPD: Two Perspectives

One of the staples of America is coffee. Every morning with the paper and maybe a bagel, millions of Americans drink a cup of coffee to start off their day. However, the vote is still out on how healthy coffee is for your diet, especially if you have COPD. We’ve put together a list of reasons why it might be helpful to incorporate caffeine into your diet, but also some reasons why you might want to switch to the decaf brew of the beloved beverage. Of course, talk to your doctor about your particular case and whether or not caffeine will help you or not.

Caffeine may be helpful because:

It is known to be a mild bronchodilator. A bronchodilator is any substance that opens windpipes and airways, making it easier to breathe. Although this effect is slight and mild, it is worthwhile to mention.

Caffeine may hinder you because:

Caffeine can react with your medication. Because you have COPD, chances are that you also are on a series of medications. Caffeine could potentially react negatively with these medications. You should talk to your doctor about these medications and their reaction with caffeine before drinking anything.

Coffee is acidic and can cause acid reflux. Acid reflux can come in conjunction with COPD, and many drinks that have caffeine can cause acid reflux. Even if it isn’t coffee, many soft drinks also can trigger acid reflux, which will lead to discomfort and pain.

Ultimately, you and your doctor will be able to decide the best course for you to take with your caffeine intake. However, it’s important to know the potential effects of caffeine on your body before going into your conversation with your doctor.

(This posting is a composite from three different writes found at various sites on the internet and we will post a lengthier write about caffeine and/or coffee and how it effects on COPD/Asthma in a future posting)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

‘Notes to Know about COPD/Asthma’ will continue to feature writings from medical folks and caretakers who share insights into the world of what may be going on in the world of COPD/Asthma.  ‘Notes to Know about COPD/Asthma’ can be found at either wheezingaway.com or within the Facebook page, COPD Travels.

Remember – ‘a person without good breathing, is a person without a good life’, so let’s do what we can, to learn what we can, to improve what we can.

I bid to all – smiles, prayers, blessings and steady breathing – Mr. William.

(Copyright@2017, CrossDove Writer through wheezingaway.com – no part of this write may be used or copied without written permission.)

NOTES: Sometimes we share what may seem like medical information, but we are only giving descriptions and highlights of various aspects of having COPD and/or asthma and no way do we ever want our information to be considered medical treatment type of information, always consult your physician for more, clearer and more medical founded information.