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Diet and Supplements October 2007 Diet and supplements are often associated with certain conditions, such as a low-carb diet for diabetes, iron supplements for anemia, and calcium for bone health. Fact is, proper nutrition and supplements can benefit all our body parts (skin, bones, joints, tendons, muscles, blood vessels and nerves), including our legs and feet. Here's a sampling of foot conditions affected by nutrition and diet: Gout - Once known as a "rich man's disease" since it was associated with kings and statesmen, gout is an extremely painful condition often seen in the great toe joint, caused by high levels of uric acid. Along with proper medication, gout can be controlled by a low purine diet. People with gout should limit their intake of meat, seafood, and dried legumes. Osteoporosis - This is a condition in which the bones become fragile and more likely to break. Your feet alone contain 52 bones! Fractures anywhere are painful; in larger joints and the spine, they can also be devastating. Adequate levels of calcium needed for healthy bones can be obtained through diet (milk, cheese and yogurt) and calcium supplements. Vitamin D and daily servings of fruits and vegetables can be helpful as well. Peripheral Neuropathy - This condition, caused by damage to the nerves, results in pain, numbness, tingling and burning in the feet. Vitamin B supplements (including B12 and Folic acid) can slow the progression of this condition. Alpha-Lipoic acid, a powerful antioxidant, is used in Europe as a primary treatment for neuropathy. Always check with your physician before making dietary changes or adding new vitamins; some supplements may interact unfavorably with prescription medications. |
