Diet for Treating Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a disorder in which the nerves are damaged. The Neuropathy Association estimates that neuropathy affects 20 million Americans and costs over $3.5 billion Medicare dollars to treat. One-third of cases result from diabetes, another third from various causes like autoimmune disorders and chemotherapy, and the rest remain unclear. In peripheral neuropathy, which is common among diabetics, there may be severe numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet. If you have neuropathy from high blood sugar, adhering to a diabetic diet may control symptoms.

What Is a Diabetic Diet?

• In diabetes, high blood sugar damages the nerves so signals to target areas--such as the extremities, organs or other body parts--slow down or never reach their destination. Control your blood sugar to prevent further nerve damage.

  A diabetic diet consists of low-fat foods such as unprocessed meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Eat meat, poultry, and fish--avoid the processed types because they contain sugar. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables--canned fruits are loaded with sugar, so check the label first. Avoid fried foods, which are filled with fat and empty calories.

What About Carbohydrates?

• Carbohydrates provide energy to the body for basic functions like breathing. In general, all foods except meat and fats (like butter and oil) contain carbohydrates. Eat healthy carbohydrates, such as beans and fresh fruits and vegetables, as they provide essential nutrients without dramatic jumps in your blood sugar. Enjoy apples, bananas, mangos, broccoli or celery from the produce section. Avoid simple carbohydrates like cookies, candy and cakes, or eat them in moderation--they spike your blood sugar without adding nutritional value. Eat fresh fruit instead of drinking the juice. Eat whole-wheat bread and whole-grain cereals instead of the processed type.

Eating Schedule

• Eat several small meals throughout the day to prevent rapid fluctuations in your blood sugar. When you eat large meals, your blood sugar increases dramatically and unless you take insulin, it may remain elevated for a long time.

If Neuropathy Persists

• Eating healthy meals in controlled portions will not necessarily eliminate neuropathy, but it may control some of the intensity. The underlying cause of neuropathy in diabetics is high blood sugar, so it is important to know what your blood sugar is at certain times throughout the day, such as upon waking or before meals. If dietary changes do not improve neuropathy, consult your health care provider, who may prescribe medication to ease the discomfort.