Effective Diets for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a condition where the people experience high blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, the artery of the lung, for unknown reasons. The pulmonary artery is responsible for carrying blood to the heart through the lung. This is a rare and progressive disorder. However, with the help of the best diets for pulmonary arterial hypertension, one can manage the illness more effectively.
Reduce salt and sodium consumption
Sodium is responsible for keeping the body fluids well-balanced. PAH patients are usually seen to hold more water in their tissues, which causes edemas to develop. It is best to reduce salt content from the diet and to also cut back on ingredients apart from salt, which is high in sodium. It is vital that with a decrease in sodium intake, one should increase the potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium consumption.
Controlled fluid intake
Excessive fluid intake and retention may cause tissues to swell. In order to stop this from happening, it is best to keep track of the patient’s water intake. Usually, PAH patients are kept on a two-liter water intake limit, but this limit may vary depending on the severity. Gaining weight is a sign of water retention, and the water intake limit can be cut down if the patient’s weight seems to be higher.
Mange supplementary intake
It is often seen the PAH patients use vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements to treat their conation and improve their immunity and recovery process. However, it is important to verify with a doctor the supplements which the patient plans to consume. Regularly consuming certain supplements may have a negative impact on the condition of a PAH patient if not monitored carefully.
More iron-rich foods
In most cases, it is seen that PAH is developed in a patient due to a lack of iron in their diet. The best diets for pulmonary arterial hypertension recommend consuming more amounts of food rich in iron such as red meat, beans, bananas, and dark leafy vegetables in the diet.
Vitamin C consumption
It is also important to consume food items that are rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and fruits rich in citrus, along with a high iron diet. This will help the body to absorb and retain iron more effectively.
Monitoring the intake of vitamin K
While consuming food that is high in iron, you need to be aware that these foods are also rich in vitamin K. Vitamin K, if consumed in an unregulated amount, can affect how well the blood-thinning process takes place. It is best to keep a check on vitamin K intake while consuming iron-rich foods to avoid any complications.