Plantar fasciitis is a condition characterized by profound, often debilitating pain in the tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes, also known as the plantar fascii. According to MedlinePlus, excess stress placed upon the plantar fascii can result in inflammation, which can make it difficult to walk, exercise or perform routine tasks. It is considered one of the most common sources of foot pain. Talk to your doctor about various options for relieving or treating your plantar fasciitis symptoms. You can also consider some lifestyle and dietary changes to decrease your pain.
Recommended Foods
According to podiatrist Robert Kornfeld on the Huffington Post, several foods can help reduce the inflammation that triggers plantar fasciitis. Kornfeld recommends foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, herring, tuna and flax seed. Foods containing amino acids and antioxidants are also beneficial in reducing inflammation and connective tissue repair. You can also seek out opportunities to season your foods with turmeric, another potent anti-inflammatory. Kornfeld also advises drinking plenty of water.
Supplementation Options
Some supplements might have a mitigating effect on your plantar fasciitis pain. According to Kornfeld, the sulfur compound methylsulfonylmethane, taken as a supplement, can help relieve inflammation and regenerate connective tissue. Kornfeld also suggests supplementing with probiotics, which bolster all aspects of immune function, including anti-inflammatory processes. Supplemental antioxidants may also be useful in combating plantar fasciitis.
Sensitivity Testing
Another possible approach to implementing a plantar fasciitis diet is to undergo food sensitivity testing. Kornfeld notes that a type of test called IgG sensitivity tests. Not to be confused with allergy tests, IgG sensitivity tests seek to determine whether certain foods are interfering with your immune function, therefore causing inflammation. Any such foods should then be eliminated from your diet, Kornfeld notes. Discuss this option with your doctor.
Weight Control
Keeping your weight at a healthful level is another important factor in preventing and addressing plantar fasciitis. According to MedlinePlus, obesity and sudden weight gain are both risk factors for this condition. Try to eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins for weight control. You might need to modify your exercise routine to eliminate any improper technique that may be worsening your condition.
Considerations
Being mindful of the foods you eat is important for overall health, and the same is true for plantar fasciitis. Kornfeld notes that keeping a food journal for a week might help you identify any nutritional imbalances or deficiencies in your diet. Kornfeld notes that your damaged plantar fascii tissue can benefit from optimum nutrition.
