Eat This, Not That for Healthier Feet

At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we recognize National Nutrition Month with some simple dietary swaps that can make a big difference in the health of your feet (and the rest of your body). Often, people have misconceptions about what it means to eat nutritiously. Healthy eating doesn’t mean depriving yourself of your favorite foods or eating boring meals. Below are some changes to try and how they can help.

Eat yogurt, not ice cream

Dairy products are the building blocks for strong bones—and there are 52 of them in your feet that rely on an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. While ice cream does contain calcium, it’s much higher in fat and calories than yogurt. Look for zero fat; zero added sugar, high protein yogurt in fun “dessert” flavors like salted caramel, chocolate peanut butter, and coffee.

Drink water or seltzer, not soda

One can of soda has between 125 and 180 calories and the equivalent of 8-11 teaspoons of sugar. Being overweight increases your chances of developing several foot disorders, including plantar fasciitis, sesamoiditis, and other painful lower extremity conditions. Just making this one simple change can reduce your calorie intake significantly if you’re trying to lose weight. Drinking plenty of water or no-calorie seltzer throughout the day can help curb your appetite too.

Eat nuts, not chips

Nuts will deliver the crunch factor you get with chips, but they are much better for you. Nuts are high in protein and can also help fight inflammation—a key source of discomfort for many foot problems. On the other hand, chips are high in saturated fats and are processed food, which can lead to an increase in your body’s inflammatory response.

Eat herbal seasonings, not salt

Patients prone to high blood pressure and heart disease—conditions that can impede blood flow to your feet--need to steer clear excess salt. In addition, too much salt can cause you to retain water, leading to uncomfortable swelling in your feet and ankles. Instead, try flavoring foods with herbs and spices from around the world. Share a new cuisine adventure with your spouse or family.

What you eat is just one component of taking care of your feet. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort or have questions about how your diet might be impacting your podiatric health, contact our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) to arrange a consultation with our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales.