TMJ disorder or temporomandibular joint disorder is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and can also cause difficulties with eating, talking, and even sleeping. If you suffer from this condition, you may know how challenging it can be to find a suitable diet that doesn’t exacerbate your symptoms. That’s why in this blog post, we are going to explore the best foods you should eat with TMJ.
Soft foods: One of the primary causes of TMJ pain is overworking the jaw muscles. To reduce jaw muscle strain, focus on eating soft foods that require less chewing. Some excellent options include smoothies, soups, mashed potatoes, and soft-cooked vegetables such as carrots and green beans. You could also try scrambled eggs and steamed fish, which are both protein-rich and easy to chew. Avoid hard foods when dealing with TMJ disorder.
Omega-3 rich foods: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for reducing inflammation in the body, and they also improve brain function. And since TMJ is associated with inflammation, eating foods such as salmon, nuts, and seeds that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Other good sources of omega-3s include herring, mackerel, and chia seeds.
Calcium-rich foods: TMJ can cause wear and tear on the cartilage that cushions the joints, leading to joint pain and inflammation. Calcium is a vital nutrient that supports healthy bone and cartilage growth. Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and leafy greens, to keep your joints healthy and strong.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Chronic inflammation can make TMJ pain and discomfort worse. Eating a healthy diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation and relieve TMJ symptoms. Some of the best anti-inflammatory foods include colorful fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Turmeric, ginger, and garlic are also powerful anti-inflammatory foods that you could add to your diet.
Hydrating foods: Water is vital for keeping your body hydrated, but staying hydrated can be difficult for those with TMJ, as chewing and swallowing can cause pain. Eating hydrating foods, such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery, can help keep you hydrated and reduce jaw strain. Drinking herbal tea or adding honey to warm water can also help you stay hydrated throughout the day.
Overall, it’s essential to adopt a healthy and balanced diet if you have TMJ. Incorporating soft foods, omega-3 rich foods, calcium-rich foods, anti-inflammatory foods, and hydrating foods can all help to alleviate TMJ symptoms. Speak to your naturopathic doctor in Kitchener Waterloo at CARESPACE to find out which foods are best for you and how to manage your TMJ symptoms. By making dietary changes and getting the right treatment, you can take control of your TMJ and start enjoying life again.
