What Foods Should You Eat If You Suffer From Neuropathy?

What Foods Should You Eat If You Suffer From Neuropathy?
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Neuropathy, medically referred to as neuritis or peripheral neuropathy, is a disorder characterized by nerve damage resulting from toxin exposure, infection, diabetes or injuries. Common symptoms include numbness, burning, tingling and pain in the feet and hands. According to MayoClinic.com, healthy diet adjustments may reduce or further prevent neuropathy symptoms for those at risk.

Lean Protein

Protein allows your body to repair tissue and formulate lean muscles. MayoClinic.com recommends eating poultry, low-fat dairy and fish products, as these are important elements for those with peripheral neuropathy. Foods with high amounts of trans and saturated fats, such as deep-fried foods, highly processed foods, butter, fatty meat, butter and cheeses, may elevate your risks for certain cardiovascular conditions and diabetes. Include lean protein sources such as yogurt, fish, tofu, skinless white-meat poultry and legumes into your diet for best results. Lean protein foods are valuable to diabetics, as they produce mild effects on blood sugar levels.

Vegetables and Fruits

Vegetables and fruits provide nutrients that prevent infections and disease and contribute to an overall healthy immune system. MayoClinic.com recommends that neuropathy patients consume a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, as they produce a mellowing effect on blood sugar, which is healthy for diabetics or those who are at risk. Vegetables and fruits most likely to promote healthy immune system functions are antioxidant rich. Examples include grapefruit, kiwi, watermelon, broccoli, bell peppers, cherries, oranges, berries, red grapes and onions. If your extremity numbness is severe or uncomfortable, keep ready-to-eat vegetables and fruits on hand to reduce pain and stress involved with food preparation.

Vitamin B-Rich Foods

B vitamins assist in the digestion process by breaking down foods. B vitamins also promote healthy nerve functions. Beneficial vitamin B food sources include meats, fish, poultry, whole grain cereals, eggs, brewer's yeast, peanuts, potatoes, milk and legumes. Incorporate vitamin B-rich foods into your meals regularly if you experience neuropathy-associated symptoms.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Nov 30, 2010

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