When most people consider their health and nutrition, their diet may immediately come to mind. However, what many people often don’t realize is that while your diet has many important roles to play in your overall health, it can even affect your feet. Today Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing some information regarding the connection between the food you eat and your feet.
Osteoporosis: This condition is associated with an increased risk of fractures, and one of the first indications of osteoporosis develops as a stress fracture in the foot. Increasing your intake of calcium and Vitamin D can reduce the risk of a fracture, as can other lifestyle modifications such as exercising.
Dairy products such as yogurt, milk, and cheese are among the best sources of calcium. But remember that saturated fats, which are commonly found in full-fat dairy foods, can escalate inflammation.
Diabetes: You may experience many types of foot problems, ranging from skin changes to nerve damage (neuropathy) if you’re diabetic. A healthy diet is one of the key ways to control blood sugar levels. It includes consuming fruits and fiber-rich vegetables, moderate amounts of healthy fats and whole grains, and lean protein.
Inflammation: This is a common cause of foot pain that is typically associated with psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. It can also strike the plantar fascia, causing the heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Common foods that are thought to encourage inflammation include sugar, the trans fats found in junk foods and baked goods, refined grains, the omega-6 fats that are found in many vegetable oils, and the saturated fat in red meat.
Peripheral Artery Disease: Two common conditions that affect the feet of millions of people are peripheral artery disease and diabetes. These disorders can damage the arteries that deliver blood to your lower extremities. Maintaining a diet that is low in trans-fat, sodium, and saturated fat - while rich in fruits and vegetables - can help decrease your risk of peripheral artery disease.
Weight: Because your feet bear the weight of your entire body, it makes sense that being overweight can cause problems in your feet. Added bodyweight elevates your risk for numerous painful conditions.
If you are experiencing these – or any other issues with your feet - contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, at (425) 455-0936 today to book your visit or schedule an appointment online.
