3 Ways to Improve Foot Health with Food
Before March comes to an end, we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle wanted to recognize National Nutrition Month. You may not realize it, but what you eat can have a significant impact on the condition of your feet. Below are 3 ways to have better podiatric health through food.
1. Get plenty of calcium in your diet. Did you know that over a quarter of the bones in your entire body are found in your feet? And, these bones have the job of carrying your entire body. For that reason, bone strength is particularly important to your feet. In addition to the best-known sources of calcium—dairy products—you can increase your intake of this key nutrient though leafy green vegetables, canned salmon and sardines and foods that are fortified with calcium like certain orange juices and cereals. Be sure to get adequate amounts of vitamin D as well, either through a supplement or 10-15 minutes of sun exposure daily. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium efficiently.
2. Eat your way to less inflammation. Studies have shown that certain foods can reduce inflammation or inhibit the body’s inflammatory response. These include: tomatoes, olive oil, fatty fish and fruits like oranges, blueberries, strawberries and cherries. Inflammation is a major reason for foot pain in conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and arthritis.
3. Keep excess pounds away. Every pound you gain puts four additional pounds of pressure on your knees and lower extremities. Eating a diet with the appropriate number of calories that is nutrient dense, high in protein and low in bad fats and sugars is essential for losing excess pounds or maintaining a healthy weight. Many podiatric disorders can be avoided, or at least the discomfort greatly lessened, by avoiding being overweight.
Of course, good nutrition is just one part of taking care of your feet. If you are currently experiencing foot or ankle pain, contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales can examine your feet, determine the cause of your discomfort and prescribe the proper treatment.