Feeling sluggish? Try a smoothie. Feeling hungry between meals? Have some quinoa. Nauseous? Nibble on a small muffin. Designed specifically with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in mind by a nutritionist, all the following recipes are low in salt but high in flavor. Cook with a cause in mind to maintain a healthy diet while living with PAH.
A side effect of some PAH medications can be upset stomach and other gastrointestinal issues like like diarrhea, feeling nauseous, or a bloated stomach. To settle the gastric system, people have turned to ginger for centuries. Chicken is also easy to digest as it contains no fiber, which is good news for those with sour stomachs. Finally, nibbling on carbohydrates may help calm an irritated bowel. Small portions are the key—smaller meals are easier on the digestive system. Feel better because of the foods you choose to eat! Remember, you and your PAH are unique. Please speak with your healthcare provider about the right dietary choices for you and your health. Bon Appetit!
Behold the humble banana blueberry smoothie! Whole fruit, honey, milk, spices, and ice are blended to create frothy perfection. While it makes an excellent breakfast, it can also be a refreshing drink on a hot summer day, and it’s chock full of vitamins and antioxidants. Antioxidants are natural molecules that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. There has been a link between neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. By eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, PAH patients may be able to bring down their inflammatory markers and absorb the vitamins and minerals they need to feel better.
There is nothing as mildly irritating as having a meal and then being hungry again two hours later. Stay fuller longer by eating whole grains, like steel-cut oats for breakfast or quinoa for lunch. By doing this, PAH patients can avoid reaching for overly processed snacks, which often have too much sodium. Eating whole grain provides protein, vitamins, and fiber to those dealing with a chronic disease.
You might know of a certain fictional sailor who can pop open a can of spinach for instant strength, but there is a kernel of truth in that old cartoon. Leafy greens (such as spinach), legumes/beans, and seafood are excellent sources of iron. Protein too! When iron is depleted in your system or you have an iron deficiency, you may feel sluggish or tired. By eating fish with a salad, it is possible to feel fuller longer from the protein and to have more energy from the iron.
PAH is a complicated disease that can be difficult to understand. We've broken it down for you with easy-to-understand information, simple graphics, and informative videos from a PAH specialist.
What is PAH?
Learn how Peggy renewed her competitive spirit after her PAH diagnosis and how she won't let an oxygen tank define her.
Competitive Spirit with PAH ⟩
How has knowing their risk status helped Lauren and Karen better understand if their treatment plan is working?
Knowing your PAH Risk Status ⟩
Living with PAH can be a big adjustment and taking care of yourself can make a big difference. But where do you start?
Self-Care and Healthy Living ⟩
