Serving Chicagoland
and Surrounding Suburbs

Board Certified in Foot and
Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery

Eating Right for Greater Foot Health

You may not realize it, but the old adage “you are what you eat” applies to your feet, too! Eating a balanced diet can help improve your overall wellness, and eating (or avoiding) certain foods can specifically impact your feet. Today we’ll discuss some of the dietary choices that may contribute to—or help you manage the symptoms of—some common conditions that affect feet.

Diabetes

Diabetics are subject to a number of serious foot-related health conditions. Some individuals will develop neuropathy and changes to their skin. These, and other symptoms of diabetes, may be managed with a low-sugar diet. Diabetics can take further steps by incorporating fiber-rich foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Osteoporosis

This chronic condition causes progressive bone loss, which can increase your risk for fractures. Oftentimes, a stress fracture in the foot is an early sign of osteoporosis. Eating low-fat dairy products, green vegetables, and fortified foods such as cereal, bread, and juice can help you get the amount of vitamin D you need to resist osteoporosis.

Inflammation

Inflammation is part of the body’s natural reaction to injury and infection. It’s also a common cause of the foot pain that accompanies several chronic conditions, including different types of arthritis. To avoid inflammation, you may need to rule out refined grains, excessive sugar, trans fats, red meat, and many types of vegetable oil. Some individuals may also want to avoid wheat gluten (found in wheat, rye, and barley). On the other hand, omega-3 fats, fresh plant-based foods, and green vegetables may help reduce inflammation.

Visit Our Foot Doctor in Chicago

While a healthy diet can make a great impact on your podiatric health, many conditions still require the intervention of a professional foot doctor in Chicago. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

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Mitchell Foot & Ankle

1338 E 47th St.
Chicago, IL 60653

Fax: 773-433-8108

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