Five Of The Best Types Of Food For Diabetic Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that can cause nerve damage throughout the body. Without treatment, it can lead to infection and potentially amputation of the affected area. Around 50% of people with diabetes have some form of nerve damage that causes various health problems and impacts their quality of life. Fortunately, neuropathy isn’t inevitable and controlling your blood sugar levels is one the best forms of defense against the disease. It’s also possible to manage neuropathy with the right food choices and regular exercise. So, what types of food should you be eating and what should you avoid? Let’s take a look…

Five categories of food for diabetic neuropathy

Don't worry, we're not going to ask you to cut out all your favorite foods or put you on a strict diet. Instead, we'll show you how beneficial some common foods can be and which ones you should consider adding more of to your diet.

1. Vitamin B12

Not only does Vitamin B12 play an essential role in the production of red blood cells but it also helps the brain and nervous system function normally. Vitamin B12 is also crucial for the maintenance of the nerves’ myelin sheath – an insulating layer comprising protein and substances that wrap around the nerves to protect them. Myelin enables signals to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells and should it become damaged, these impulses slow down. Foods rich in Vitamin B12 are primarily of animal origin and include fish, meat, eggs, poultry and dairy products. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan don’t be alarmed. We’ve found a variety of B12 food options for you too.

Recipe idea: For a quick, tasty, and low-calorie meal how about Spicy Keto Mussels?

2.Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Most of us know that Omega-3 fatty acids are important for us, but what are they and what do they do? In simple terms, they help all of your body’s cells function properly. Omega-3s are particularly concentrated in the eyes and brain. Furthermore, they provide energy for the body and support body systems, including the endocrine system and the cardiovascular system. Our bodies alone can’t provide the amount of Omega-3s needed for survival which is why you need to get these essential nutrients from food. Here are 8 foods that are high in Omega-3

• Fish – Mackerel, sardines, salmon, herrings, anchovies
• Cod liver oil
• Oysters
• Caviar
• Flaxseed
• Chia seeds
• Walnuts
• Soybeans

Recipe idea: Grilled mackerel is one of our favorites and so quick and tasty

3. Alpha Lipoic Acid

Foods containing lipoic acid are particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes because they combat free radicals.  In particular, studies found that alpha lipoic acid helped patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy by relieving symptoms such as tingling, itching, burning and numbness in their hands and feet caused by nerve damage. Foods containing lipoic acid include:

• Potatoes
• Yams
• Brussel sprouts
• Broccoli
• Spinach

Recipe idea: We weren’t fans of brussel sprouts until we found this recipe which elevates them to a new height – Brussel sprouts with leeks and bacon

4. Whole Grains

Whole grains provide an abundant source of fiber, iron, protein, minerals and vitamins and are a great choice for the whole family, not just those with diabetes. Complex sugars contained in whole brains also help with the management of blood sugar levels and promote brain development- making them an excellent source of food for diabetic neuropathy. We also like the fact that they fill you up for longer, helping keep hunger at bay. Whole grain foods include:

• Rice – brown, black, red, wild
• Oatmeal
• Popcorn
• Whole-grain breakfast cereals
• Whole-wheat flour

Recipe idea: Why not try a brown rice bowl with caramelized onions and a fried egg?

5. Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients, also known as phytochemicals, are natural compounds found in plants that help them stay healthy by protecting against germs and other external threats. The benefits of phytonutrients extend to humans as well. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, these pigment-rich foods safeguard our cardiovascular and nervous systems, boost our immune system, and help regulate our hormones.

Phytonutrient-rich foods include:

• Spinach
• Peppers
• Kale
• Tomatos
• Bok Choy
• Carrots

Recipe idea: Some of these foods are great in an Asian stir fry and could be matched with brown rice or chicken as in this recipe.

These are all everyday foods that you should be including in your diet more often. Not only do these foods help with diabetic neuropathy but they’re also great foods for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

So now you know what foods are good for diabetic neuropathy let’s look at foods that are best avoided due to their impact on nerve health.

Highly processed foods:

• Potato chips: High in sodium and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to inflammation and worsen neuropathy symptoms.
• Cold cuts: Often contain high levels of sodium and preservatives.
• Fast food: Common fast food items are typically high in both sodium and added sugars.

Foods with added sugar

Cookies, ice cream and candy are highly tempting but aside from adding inches to your waistline, they can intensify nerve damage and pain. Steering clear of foods with added sugar can help you manage diabetic neuropathy more effectively.

Dairy products

Products like butter and cheese are rich in saturated fats and can contribute to inflammation, increasing neuropathy discomfort. If you have diabetic neuropathy, you should consider moderating your consumption of dairy products or give them a miss altogether.

Alcohol

While drinking alcohol in moderation should have little effect on those with diabetic neuropathy, excessive drinking can make nerve damage worse.

The Takeaway

When it comes to food for diabetic neuropathy it’s all about finding the right balance in your diet and making informed food choices.

If you are diabetic but don’t have neuropathy, here are 4 effective strategies to help prevent the condition. 

Schedule a consultation with our vascular doctors

Don’t take chances with any aspect of diabetes. Regular monitoring is crucial to optimize treatment and reduce the risk of complications from conditions such as neuropathy and PAD. Call MINT today to schedule a consultation.