Summary: This week on Beating Neuropathy & Chronic Pain, we will once again be talking about the ideal diet for someone suffering from peripheral neuropathy. This diet is primarily plant-based (vegan) and gluten-free. Dr. Hayes recommends a "paleo" type diet, which is free of processed foods and does contain periodic consumption of lean meats such as salmon. Nutrients such as Acetyl L-Carnitine, found in large quantities in meat, can improve neuropathy and other health conditions. One of the biggest offending ingredients is dairy. Other than periodic traces of dairy, most people should not consume dairy. Dr. Hayes suggests reading The China Study for those who may be skeptical. Eliminating gluten as well will reduce inflammation. An excess of inflammation in the body will set the stage for serious illness such as cancer. It is not always easy to avoid dairy and gluten, but most who do are glad they did so! Soy products contain compounds called phytoestrogens, which may be beneficial in improving insulin resistance. Consuming soy protein may reduce excess insulin, which is important for people who suffer from metabolic syndrome (pre-diabetes) or diabetes. Another food chronic pain and neuropathy patients can benefit from is healthy fat. Plant-based fats such as coconut and olive, despite their saturated fat content, are not unhealthy. Essential fatty acids improve inflammation, as well as hair and skin. A study in India showed that the EFAs (particularly lauric acid in coconut oil) improved diabetic neuropathy in rats. Consuming sulfur-rich foods such as garlic and onions will help detoxify the body. Garlic has also been used as an antibiotic and antiparasitic. Expanding your dietary horizons to include more unprocessed, plant-based foods and limited quantities of high-quality meats and fish will surely improve your quality of life whether you suffer from neuropathy or not! Find us on Facebook, and email us with questions and/or suggestions!
