Your diet impacts all parts of the body, including your feet. If you experience frequent pain and swelling and you’re not sure why, your foot and ankle specialist might ask about your diet to determine if poor nutrition is a contributing factor. This guide explains how dietary habits and common ingredients can lead to foot pain, and what you should be eating to treat or eliminate discomfort.

How Can I Prevent Inflammation?

If you suffer from swollen feet or a condition characterized by inflammation like plantar fasciitis, the foods you consume can either contribute to the problem or help treat it. Foods that contain sugar, trans fats, and refined grains can cause your blood sugar level to rise quickly, leading to inflammation. Some people may also experience foot swelling as part of an allergic reaction to grains. These ingredients are commonly found in processed foods and baked goods and should be consumed in moderation.

How Can I Improve My Overall Health?

To protect your feet from inflammation and improve your overall health, you should add certain foods to your diet in addition to cutting out sugar and refined grains. Look for lean proteins and fish that contain high volumes of omega-3 fatty acids. Fresh fruits and vegetables will provide the vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates you need for a balanced diet.

A nutrition plan high in essential nutrients and low in sugar also helps you maintain a healthy weight. According to foot and ankle specialists, controlling your weight improves circulation, which decreases your risk of developing diabetes, a disease that can cause significant nerve damage to your feet. Carrying less weight can even reduce pressure on your feet, decreasing your likelihood of experiencing tendon pain and swelling.

Working with a foot and ankle specialist to create a nutrition plan that fights swelling and inflammation ensures you will receive the guidance and support you need to make a meaningful lifestyle change. Podiatry Associates of Rochester in Monroe County, NY, treats a wide range of common foot conditions, including those related to diet and weight. Visit their website to find the podiatry office nearest you, and call (585) 342-8700 schedule an appointment.