Today's post from the ever-reliable neuropathydr.com (see link below) looks at the best dietary options if you have neuropathy. While it doesn't explain the science behind the choices, it does seem to be based on a low gluten food base and as gluten is more and more associated with nerve problems, this may be logical. It also has to be said that this sort of diet is never easy to shop for and there may also be budgetary considerations to bear in mind, however, if we're aiming for the best possible dietary self-care then the ideas here may be useful to you when compiling your shopping lists.
Posted by Editor on July 20, 2015
This Guide Describes What to Eat Throughout the Day for a Healthy Diet!
You have no doubt heard that changes to your diet and lifestyle can have a tremendous impact on your health as far as neuropathy and chronic pain is concerned.
But what is a neuropathy diet? Exactly what you should be eating, and what should you avoid?
Here is a breakdown of a typical day’s worth of snacks and meals on the neuropathy diet to give you an idea of what kind of adjustments you should be making on your own.
Of course, you may need to modify this general outline for your own symptoms or pain level under the supervision of your NeuropathyDR Clinician.
First, be sure to have breakfast every morning. Ideally, eat a small amount of protein within a few minutes of waking up, which helps to jump-start your mental state as well as your metabolism.
You could have a protein shake made with vegetable protein powder (dairy-free) and coconut milk or almond milk. Or if you prefer not to drink your breakfast, try granola (gluten-free) or steel cut oats.
Next, you’ll want to have a small low-carb snack about three hours after breakfast. Half an apple or banana would do the trick or a small amount of nuts, such as almonds. Be careful when consuming packaged snacks, such as protein bars, as many of them contain a great deal of sugar.
For lunch, you’ll want more protein and veggies. The easiest way to do this is make a salad featuring your favorite kinds of greens—spinach is great. Add a small amount of chicken, tuna, turkey, or salmon for a lean protein, or use tofu if you’re vegan. Throw in a few walnuts or almonds and a drizzle of olive oil.
Have another snack in mid-afternoon, something small and low-carb like your morning snack.
For dinner, emphasize vegetables like asparagus, beets, squash, sweet potatoes, or cooked spinach. Avoid starchy veggies like white potatoes or rice. For a protein, try locally sourced hormone-free beef or fresh fish.
In the evening, have one more small snack. This time it can be a treat, such as one square of dark chocolate or a SMALL serving of gluten-free low-carb cookies.
You’ll also want to have lots of water throughout the day, and limited amounts of tea or coffee are okay.
You’ll notice that this diet is dairy-free, very low in sugar, and contains no bread products or junk food.
Try making a gradual shift into the NeuropathyDR diet over a period of a few days. You won’t believe how much better it makes you feel!
For more information on the neuropathy diet and other neuropathy basics, see our guide I Beat Neuropathy!
http://neuropathydr.com/best-neuropathy-diet/
