Evaluation of Dietary Intake of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Patients Based on Severity

Dietary patterns high in anti-inflammatory foods are recommended as part of the treatment for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aims to assess the dietary intake of COPD at different severity levels. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 65 patients aged 50-80 diagnosed with COPD differen severity as moderate, severe and very severe. Participants' nutritional intake was calculated from 24-hour dietary recalls. Energy and nutritional intake were evaluated using the BEBIS 8.1 dietary analysis program, which utilizes the Turkish Food Composition Database. Dietary intake was compared against the Turkey Dietary Guidelines. The mean age of the patients was 65.16 ± 7.69 years, with the majority being male, 86.2% (n=56). Severe patients had the lowest intake of omega-3, energy, and protein. Energy intake meeting the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) levels was 67.64 ± 33.11%, with the lowest in the severe group. Total energy (r=-0.282), carbohydrate (r=-0.258), and sodium intake were negatively correlated with Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second/ Forced Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC), (p<0.05). The study found that patients with severe COPD have lower intake of energy, protein, carbohydrates, and omega-3, with essential micronutrients falling below 60% of recommended levels. Given these findings, Nutrition specialists should accurately assess the energy and protein needs of COPD patients and provide antioxidant support.