When it comes to diseases, food can play a major role in either increasing or decreasing the likelihood of developing and/or worsening symptoms. Lyme disease is no exception; certain foods can act oppositely to others when it comes to the severity of this condition.
So what foods make lyme disease worse? Read more as we’ll get into the details of this matter in today’s post.
Refrain From Eating These Foods If You Have Lyme Disease
In general, having a balanced diet that consists of anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can help reduce the severity of lyme disease symptoms. Foods that contain refined sugars, processed grains, and trans fats should be avoided because they have inflammatory properties that may worsen symptoms. Studies have found a direct correlation between high sugar intake and the onset of chronic symptoms associated with lyme disease. Consuming a diet high in sugar can lead to an increased rate of fatigue, cognitive impairments, and joint pain in those suffering from lyme disease.
Processed grains, such as white bread or breakfast cereals, and trans fat-laden foods are two key dietary factors that can worsen symptoms of Lyme disease. The inflammatory nature of these ingredients can trigger an immune response, which can cause inflammation and lead to worsened symptoms, such as joint pain and fatigue.
Processed grains, such as white rice and white flour, can reduce fiber intake which is essential for gut health. The lack of fiber can cause digestive issues, including constipation and diarrhea, which may make Lyme disease symptoms worse.
Trans fat-laden foods like margarine, fast food, fried snacks, and baked goods should be avoided as they are known to increase inflammation in the body. Eating a diet high in trans fats can make Lyme disease symptoms worse, such as joint pain and fatigue.
Other foods that can worsen the symptoms of lyme disease include processed foods, gluten, dairy products, and high amounts of saturated fat. These types of food can trigger inflammation in the body which has been linked to increased levels of pain and discomfort for those with lyme disease.
Also, foods like red meat, dairy products, caffeine, sodas, alcohol and processed snacks can also increase inflammation in the body which can result in more severe and prolonged lyme symptoms.
In addition, eating a diet high in probiotics can be beneficial as they help reduce inflammation by increasing the number of “good” bacteria in the digestive tract. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi are excellent sources of probiotics.
Lastly, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated as this can help reduce inflammation. Water is the best option for hydration but herbal teas, broths, and electrolyte-rich beverages are also beneficial.
By making these dietary changes, people with lyme disease may be able to reduce their symptoms and improve their overall health. It is important to note, however, that everyone’s body is different and results may vary. Therefore, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any major changes to your diet.
What Are The Safest Foods To Eat If You Have Lyme Disease
The safest food to eat when managing Lyme disease is one that is fresh, organic, and free from chemicals. Eating a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins can help alleviate symptoms and provide the body with important vitamins and minerals for healing. Additionally, it’s important for people with lyme disease to ensure their diets contain adequate omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics.
To be specific, eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics can help alleviate the various symptoms associated with lyme disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the body’s immune system, helping it fight infection effectively. Vitamin D aids in protecting against inflammation and boosting the body’s ability to absorb calcium, both of which are important for reducing the symptoms of lyme disease. Probiotics help balance out the bacteria in the gut, which can help reduce inflammation and other issues associated with the condition.
Final Thoughts
By following these dietary tips, people with lyme disease can reduce the severity of their symptoms and improve their overall health. By avoiding the foods listed above, people with lyme disease can prevent further inflammation and help reduce the severity of their symptoms. In addition, eating a diet high in probiotics, drinking plenty of fluids, and consuming anti-inflammatory foods can also be beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with lyme disease.
Finally, if you or someone you know is living with lyme disease, it is important to seek help or contact Pacific Frontier’s lyme disease doctors to ensure the best possible outcome. There are a variety of treatments available and consulting with a doctor can help identify what treatment options are right for you. Additionally, they can provide important guidance when it comes to understanding which foods may make lyme disease worse.