What you eat has a direct impact on your body, especially the feet. It is important to know how the food you eat can affect your feet in a variety of ways.

During this Diabetes Awareness Month, we at Joseph Stuto, DPM urge our patients with diabetes to be extra careful about what they eat. Following the diet plan and exercise routines prescribed by your doctor is essential if you want to stay healthy and safe.

Our expert Dr. Joseph Stuto has identified some common conditions that are a direct result of your dietary choices; these include:

• Diabetes and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Diabetes and PAD restrict blood flow in the lower extremities and may cause nerve damage which adversely affects your sense of feeling in the feet. Leafy vegetables and fruits, combined with daily exercise, are best to control this condition.
• Inflammation: Commonly associated with gout, arthritis or injury to the plantar fascia (the tissue that runs under your feet) causing heel pain. Sugary foods, saturated and trans fats found in junk food are common foods that aggravate inflammation.
• Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by weakening of the bones and making them prone to fractures due to brittleness. Consuming foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk, yogurt, cheese, etc., can greatly reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Light exercises also strengthen the bones and surrounding muscles.
• Edema or fluid retention: Lack of water supply or excessive salts can lead to fluid accumulation and inflammation in the ankles. Drinking plenty of water and keeping your feet elevated helps to counter this condition.

Food intake also affects your weight and, consequently, your feet end up bearing the burden. If your feet are hurting or you have concerns regarding your feet, feel free to browse through our extensive library covering an array of podiatry related topics. Please can call us at our offices located in Brooklyn Heights (718) 624-7537 and Brooklyn (718) 567-1403 and schedule an appointment today.