How Better Diet and Nutrition Helps Both Diabetes and Arthritis

The team at Northern Ankle Foot Associates is always advocating for balanced diets, which most people know are essential to overall health. Lesser known, yet no less important, is the fact that diet control also plays a significant role in managing chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.

By making conscious food choices, you can improve your quality of life and support your body’s natural healing processes.

Diabetes: Balancing Blood Sugar and Nutrition

For people with diabetes, diet plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and preventing complications. Focus on:

• Complex carbohydrates:
  • Choose whole grains, legumes, and vegetables over refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary snacks. Be aware: carbs have a significant impact on your blood glucose no matter what kind you ingest, so plan accordingly.
  • Consider complex carbohydrates preferable to any alternatives. They are digested more slowly, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar.  
• Lean protein:
  • Include lean protein sources like fish, poultry, beans, and tofu in your diet.
  • Protein helps you feel full and satisfied. It also helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Healthy fats:
  • Don’t be afraid of fats, but choose healthy options like those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
  • Healthy fats support heart health and help you feel satisfied after meals.  
• Foods to avoid:
  • Sugary drinks, processed foods, and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats can worsen diabetes and its complications.
  • Choose water as your beverage whenever possible and practice portion control!

Eating For Arthritis: Easing Joint Pain and Improving Mobility

Arthritis, a condition that affects millions, often involves joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. While various factors contribute to arthritis, diet, and nutrition can play a significant role in managing symptoms and improving joint health, particularly for autoimmune varieties such as rheumatoid arthritis.

• Weight management:
  • Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing arthritis. Excess weight puts stress on joints, particularly those in the knees, hips, and feet.
  • Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.  
• Anti-inflammatory foods:
  • Include foods with anti-inflammatory properties in your diet, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts. These foods can potentially help to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.  
• Vitamin D and calcium:
  • Ensure adequate intake of both for better bone health. Strong bones are essential for maintaining joint stability and preventing fractures.  
• Foods to avoid: Processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation or worsen arthritis symptoms.
  • Nightshade veggies, alcohol, and gluten have also been studied for their potential to worsen certain forms of arthritis.

A Balanced Approach

Diet and nutrition are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to managing chronic conditions. Regular exercise, stress management, and proper medical care are also essential for overall wellness. By educating yourself and acting accordingly, you can improve your quality of life and manage your condition effectively.

If you’re in need of podiatric care or assistance, please reach out to Northern Ankle Foot Associates and contact us today. Dr. Robyn Joseph would be happy to help.