Our feet are our first mode of transportation. While we debate about what oil and gas to put in our cars, we don't think as much about how what we eat affects our feet. Along with addressing issues you are having with a podiatrist, here are some dietary considerations for improving your foot health. 

How Nutrition Affects Feet

The standard American diet is high in fat, refined carbohydrates, and sugars, which can cause inflammation and worsen conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. But this type of diet and these medical conditions can also be detrimental to your feet as well. Diabetes and heart disease can damage the arteries that supply blood to the feet, which can cause problems, such as poor circulation. 

Inflammation can exacerbate issues as well and cause problems, such as plantar fasciitis. Weight gain can also negatively impact the feet and ankles. Since they support the rest of the body, maintaining a healthy weight can also be beneficial. 

What to Eat for Healthy Feet   

Eating a Mediterranean diet can be good for the conditions listed above as well as just for overall health. The food is rich in healthy oils, fruit, vegetables, and fish and low in refined carbohydrates, and is optimal for many that want to fight inflammation. It is a varied, healthy, and easy to follow diet, and the foods can be purchased at most grocery stores.

You may also want to consider discussing calcium and vitamin D intake with your podiatrist as well. Osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to weaken, can also wreak havoc on the feet, causing fractures in the ankles and bones of the feet. Your podiatrist can prescribe diet, supplements, or lifestyle changes you can make to increase bone density in your feet.

If you are ready to make lifestyle changes for healthier feet, Dr. Eric D. Trattner in Fairview Park, OH, can help. As a foot specialist, Dr. Trattner will use his training, technology, and breakthrough treatments to help you achieve your foot health goals in a comfortable setting. To learn more or to speak to his friendly staff, visit the website or call (440) 333-5350 today.