Eating healthy with Alpha-1

Good nutrition can help you stay healthier, breath better and have more energy. Eating well can also help fight infections. So make healthy eating a part of your daily life with Alpha-1. To help, here are some healthy-eating tips:

• Stay at a healthy weight. If you need to lose or gain weight, do so under the care of your doctor or dietitian
• Eat a balanced diet
  • Include carbohydrates, protein, and fat at every meal. A dietitian can suggest how much of each to eat
  • Be sure to eat foods with fiber
• Break up your meals. Instead of eating three large meals a day, eat four to five smaller meals. Eating too much at one time can make it harder to breath until your food digests
• Eat at least five servings of fruits or vegetables every day
• If it’s hard for you to get enough calories in, think about ways to add healthy calories to your food
  • Add peanut butter or other nut butters to a smoothie
  • Add avocado or hummus to your sandwiches, crackers, vegetables or salads
  • Drink liquids with more calories, like whole milk, protein shakes and smoothies; avoid liquids with mainly sugar calories, like sodas or sweetened teas
  • Try not to drink anything for about 30 minutes before you eat so you won’t feel full at mealtime 
  • Add foods like dried fruit, chopped nuts or seeds, honey, bacon bits, cheeses and dressings. These can be good snacks, too
  • Ask your doctor or dietitian before you take any supplements

Staying active also helps you stay healthy. Exercise can help you feel better mentally and physically. It can keep your muscles stronger and give you more energy. Many people enjoy walking, biking, yoga or stretching. Talk to your doctor about your goals and make a plan that works for you. Remember, the healthiest way is to build up slowly. 

For more tips on eating healthy, talk to your doctor or dietitian. Or visit alpha1.org or alpha1.uk.

Your Alpha-1 Advocate Team is also here for you. Call us at 1-877-602-6726 when you need us. 

_Disclaimers

_{This information is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about your medical condition and prior to starting any new treatment. Coram assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided or for any diagnosis or treatment made as a result.}

_{Your privacy is important to us. Our employees are trained regarding the appropriate way to handle your private health information.}