Foods That Trigger Neuropathy: What You Must Know

​Nutritional support proves critical to successfully halting the ill effects of neuropathy. How? By boosting nitric oxide levels, which leads to better circulation and improved functionality. Of course, customers struggling with neuropathy should also eat to support their general health and well-being. And this means steering them towards nitrate-rich foods and beneficial supplements. 

But your customers should also understand that some foods actually exacerbate peripheral neuropathy. Here’s what these individuals need to know.

What Not to Eat for Peripheral Neuropathy
When it comes to managing the symptoms of neuropathy, eating can have a significant impact on the progression of the condition. Think of proper diet and nutrition as essential tools in your customers’ therapeutic arsenal, and “bad foods” as land mines to be avoided. What should patients not eat when managing peripheral neuropathy? Culprits include:

• Added sugars
• Salty snacks
• Gluten
• Refined grains
• Trans and saturated fats
• Heavy metals
• Produce with pesticides
• Alcohol

Why are the items above so hard on individuals wrestling with neuropathy? Here’s what your customers need to know about the effects of these foods and beverages on the body.

​Say Goodbye to Sugar
Because of diets like keto and paleo, avoiding added sugars is easier than ever before. And that’s an excellent thing because sugar consumption can lead to significant complications with peripheral neuropathy, especially for those dealing with diabetes. Excess sugars contribute to increased blood sugar levels. This, in turn, leads to heightened nerve and blood vessel damage. Luckily, customers can have their health and sweet treats, too. Tasty alternatives to sugar include fruit and sweeteners made with stevia or monk fruit.
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Kick These Items to the Curb
We can’t put too fine a point on it. Alcohol damages nerves, even in relatively healthy individuals. So, imbibing should be kept to a minimum for those with existing nerve problems. Customers should also avoid gluten, especially if they have sensitivities or allergies. Consuming gluten without the ability to properly digest it can lead to countless health problems, fueling nerve inflammation. The same goes for refined grains, which increase blood sugar. A good rule of thumb is to avoid eating foods that fall at the high end of the glycemic index.
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Lay Off the Snack Foods
People dealing with neuropathy should avoid snacks with a high salt content, too. Salt restricts blood flow and can exaggerate peripheral neuropathy numbness. So, tell customers to nix the potato chips, cold cuts, and fast foods for better results. Steering clear of these foods will help individuals avoid unhealthy fats, including trans and saturated fats, too. Instead, they should increase the heart-healthy, polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids they consume. Along with these recommendations, patients should avoid foods with high heavy metal and pesticide content.

​​Foods That Trigger Neuropathy
Healthful eating is at the heart of treating peripheral neuropathy. Your role involves encouraging patients to up their intake of fruits and veggies. But it also requires making them aware of foods that trigger neuropathy, high blood sugar, and nerve damage. Encourage patients to supplement with high-quality nitric oxide products for added benefits. 
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To enhance your customers’ therapy, offer the NeuropaCalm Care Program at your pharmacy or convenient care clinic. Your patients will appreciate the non-invasive nature of these comprehensive treatments. Are you ready to offer NeuropaCalm at your independent pharmacy or convenient care clinic? 

Click here to find out more about this state-of-the-art neuropathy care program.