The term "neuropathy" refers to nerve damage. The central nervous system controls your brain and spinal cord nerve systems whereas the peripheral nervous system controls nerve signaling to the outer organs. Within the peripheral nervous system are autonomic nerves that regulate the involuntary functions of your heart, the digestive tract, blood vessels and glands. Injury to the nerves, systemic disease like diabetes or nutrient deficiencies can result in autonomic neuropathy. Diet can help manage symptoms associated with this form of neuropathy.
Role of Diet in Autonomic Neuropathy
Nutritional deficiencies, including lack of B vitamins, play a role in the progression of nerve damage. The B vitamins are significant in metabolic processes that regulate digestion and nervous system functions. Malnourishment from alcoholism and poorly managed diabetes are the most common cause of autonomic neuropathy, notes MayoClinic.com. The progression of autonomic neuropathy can result in stomach paralysis, or gastroparesis, which slows stomach digestion, making it difficult to get adequate nutrition from foods without making dietary changes. Controlling neuropathy involves medical treatment of the underlying cause like correcting nutritional deficiency and managing diabetes to prevent further complications.
Low-Fat, Lean Protein Sources
High-fat foods, including fried foods, red meat and whole dairy, are difficult to digest when the nerves in your digestive tract are impacted by autonomic neuropathy. Choose leaner forms of protein to get the nutrients you need without causing further digestive upset. According to a 2008 study published in "Endocrine Abstracts," healthy fats from omega-3 sources exert cardioprotective effects in people with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy. Include omega-3 foods in your diet such as fish like salmon, tuna and nuts. Opt for nonfat or low-fat dairy and baked, grilled or roasted poultry. Cut and chew your meat thoroughly and eat smaller portions to aid in the digestive process.
Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains
A healthy and well-balanced diet includes produce and whole grains, which are nutrient-rich and high in fiber. But depending on your symptoms, you may have to decrease fiber intake if your stomach does not empty properly from gastroparesis. Nutrient-rich foods that are low in fiber include refined grains such as white rice, white pasta or white bread; potatoes; grits and plain bagels. Low-fiber produce includes cooked tomatoes, mushrooms, carrots, applesauce, bananas, pears and peaches. If gastroparesis is not a problem for you, choose whole grains, including wheat or bran products, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Liquids, Vitamins and Foods to Avoid
Fluids like water or low-sugar beverages can help with digestion, or opt for nutritional liquids such as smoothies, juiced vegetables, or fruits and bouillon. Eat plenty of vitamin-rich foods to minimize the risk of deficiencies related to autonomic neuropathy and consult your physician before taking vitamin supplements. If you have diabetes, maintain physician-advised dietary habits to control your blood sugar, which can help lessen neuropathy symptom occurrence. Avoid alcohol consumption if you have neuropathy. Alcohol may further damage your nerves. Limit high-fat junk foods like chips, cookies and candy to reduce your risk of weight gain, which also worsens neuropathy symptoms.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet; February 2011
- MayoClinic.com: Autonomic Neuropathy
- University of Virginia Digestive Health Center; Diet Intervention for Gastroparesis; Carol Rees Parrish, et al.; October 2010
- Endocrine Abstracts; Effects of the Omega-2 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy...; Alexander Serhiyenko, et al.; 2008
- American Diabetes Association: Making Healthy Food Choices
- MedlinePlus: Thiamin
