Trigeminal Neuralgia diet. Is there a diet which improves the quality of life of people with Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Are you aware of a diet that can improve the quality of life of people with Trigeminal Neuralgia? Is there a diet that is suggested to avoid when having Trigeminal Neuralgia? See if there is a diet that can improve the quality of life of people with Trigeminal Neuralgia, recommended and to avoid food when having Trigeminal Neuralgia


Trigeminal Neuralgia Diet: Improving Quality of Life


Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a chronic condition characterized by severe facial pain that can be debilitating and significantly impact a person's quality of life. While there is no specific diet that can cure or eliminate TN, certain dietary modifications may help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. It is important to note that these dietary changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional and tailored to individual needs.



1. Anti-Inflammatory Foods


Chronic inflammation is believed to play a role in the development and progression of TN. Including anti-inflammatory foods in your diet can help reduce inflammation and potentially alleviate symptoms. These foods include:



  • Fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines) rich in omega-3 fatty acids

  • Colorful fruits and vegetables (berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and bell peppers) packed with antioxidants

  • Healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, and nuts)

  • Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, and oats)

  • Spices and herbs (turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon)



2. Avoid Trigger Foods


Identifying and avoiding trigger foods that may exacerbate TN symptoms is crucial. While triggers can vary from person to person, common culprits include:



  • Processed foods high in artificial additives and preservatives

  • Highly acidic foods and beverages (citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, and alcohol)

  • Spicy foods

  • Excessive sugar and sugary drinks

  • Artificial sweeteners


Keeping a food diary can help pinpoint specific trigger foods and guide dietary adjustments.



3. Balanced Nutrition


A well-balanced diet is essential for overall health and can positively impact TN symptoms. Ensure your diet includes:



  • Adequate protein from lean sources (chicken, fish, legumes, and tofu)

  • Healthy carbohydrates (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables)

  • Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, and olive oil)

  • Ample fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

  • Plenty of water to stay hydrated



4. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements


While it is best to obtain nutrients from whole foods, certain vitamin and mineral supplements may be beneficial for individuals with TN. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if supplementation is necessary. Some supplements that may be considered include:



  • Vitamin B12: Helps maintain nerve health

  • Vitamin D: Supports overall immune function and bone health

  • Magnesium: Known for its muscle-relaxing properties

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Possess anti-inflammatory properties



5. Stress Management


Stress can exacerbate TN symptoms, so incorporating stress management techniques into your daily routine is crucial. This may include:



  • Regular exercise, such as yoga, walking, or swimming

  • Meditation or deep breathing exercises

  • Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and relaxation

  • Getting enough sleep and practicing good sleep hygiene



While dietary modifications can potentially improve the quality of life for individuals with Trigeminal Neuralgia, it is important to remember that each person's experience with TN is unique. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is essential to develop a personalized diet plan that suits your specific needs and medical history.


by Diseasemaps

I have found no diet works. Other than not chewing foods that take a lot of chewing and foods that are cold.

3/17/17 by Debbie K 1050

Nope. Nada.

3/17/17 by Lee 1000

I only know b12 vitamines have helped some,but some kinda diet i dont know.

3/17/17 by Tanja-Marie 1340

I'm not aware of of specific diet but I do know that from personal experience sometimes cold is good like ice cream sometimes hot. Sometime you just need it room temp. Because of the affects I would say eat when you can and what sounds good.

3/20/17 by Melissa 300

In my case no diet has been discussed yet, I am still early in the more advanced stage of treatment. I could go months with out a flair up for years, then In January 2017 it triggered and has been relentless. I do suffer more or trigger more pain it seems when eating hard crunchy foods.

3/20/17 by Joyce Parton 1000

I am not aware of any specific diet that improves trigeminal neuralgia; however, I would suggest that any hard foods that may trigger pain be avoided.

3/21/17 by Sandy 1052

Lot of pain can be controlled in diet. Eating regularly and not eating any food of extreme temperature can help. My doctor also advised me low protein diet and reduced fermentedand fatty foods

3/21/17 by Hema 1000

A balanced diet is always recommended. One low in refined sugars and gluten in likely better.

3/21/17 by Heidi 1000

I am not aware of any diet that has been proven successful in the treatment of TN. An anti-inflammatory diet could possibly be helpful when considering the condition as a disease that causes high inflammation, however. In that case, sugar is to be avoided, since it raises the inflammation levels in the body. For other recommendations see the following: https://www.pubfacts.com/detail/28524125/Surgical-management-of-venous-compression-causing-trigeminal-neuralgia The effectiveness of an anti-inflammatory diet in the treatment of TN is yet to be proven. People with TN often have difficulties chewing food, as they have highly sensitive teeth. Therefore, it is recommended TNers eat soft foods. Smoothies made with vegetables or fruit are a healthy alternative to ravioli or other soft foods! Just try and maintain a healthy balanced diet whenever possible and do not be tempted to eat fast food. If you are not able to cook for yourself, get someone else to do it for you or obtain your meals through a healthy food service such as Meals on Wheels (Australia).

6/12/17 by Margo 3125

Vitamin rich, nutritionally complete diets are often a good idea. Similar to MS, demyelination can occur and preventing this should be high on TN sufferers' agendas.Avoiding typical junk food (simple carbs, glucose, trans fats) is recommended generally, although some sufferers report high protein and carb boluses to benefit them during attacks.

6/14/17 by John 900

No diet can cure you. B12 is suggested. No sugar is suggested to help manage pain.

7/29/17 by Jltaylor21 820

Pracically speaking: any soft or liquid foods that still are high in nutrition. Think: yougurt

7/29/17 by Christina 1100

Eating alot of foods rich with vitamins that are good for nerves always helps. Vitamin B is good magnesium also.

7/30/17 by Poison Yvy 2015

Not that I am aware but the healthier you are the better your pain is in my experience.

8/6/17 by Michelle 2050

When mine was at its worst it hurt too much to eat. I've not heard of a diet that helps

10/3/17 by Korine 1200

Caffeine is in many foods and need to be avoided, hot and cold really affects some one with Tn. Also breathing chewing and smiling when a flare is going on. There are plenty of source on line to get more details on diet.

2/4/18 by James 2500

I have found eating a healthy diet to have minor improvements on my pain. I avoid sugar and gluten, I make sure to eat plenty of protein, drink more than 64 oz of water a day, and I have a line of supplements that I use to help manage my pain.

2/23/18 by Alicia 2600

It depends on the person's health, and other medical conditions they have. At first if your mouth, teeth or tongue is affected, maybe only liquids will be tolerated for some time. Otherwise, it's trial and error on the individual.

5/18/18 by Jackie 1800

It is often said that people with trigeminal neuralgia should avoid caffeine and chocolate. Even spicy foods have made the list of things to avoid consuming. I think it really depends from one individual to the next. No blanket list of things to avoid works for everyone. Alcohol has even made the list, but the one or two people I have known with trigeminal neuralgia find alcohol to soothe the pain by numbing the nerve somewhat. It's really a hit or miss situation when it comes to food. I would certainly advise against sucking fluids through straws because that can aggravate the nerve and set off the pains. But you have to find what works and doesn't work for you.

2/12/20 by Eric 2550

I have not found a diet that helps me in any way the pain is always the same

6/3/20 by Nancy 2250

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