Do you suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ? TMJ can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw and face area, making it difficult to eat or talk. If you suffer from TMJ, there are a few specific foods that can help ease the pain and discomfort. In this blog post, a TMJ specialist in Albuquerque suggests these five foods to try if you have TMJ. Eating the right foods can make a difference in how you feel, so let’s get started!
Oatmeal:
To reap the benefits of eating oatmeal for TMJ relief, make sure you are using steel cut oats or rolled oats. Avoid flavored or instant oatmeal as they contain added sugar and other additives. Instead, top your oatmeal with fruit such as bananas. This will add natural sweetness to your oatmeal without the extra sugar.
Smoothies:
When making a smoothie for TMJ relief, opt for ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties like pineapple, spinach, chia seeds, and ginger. Additionally, adding collagen powder to your smoothie can help rebuild connective tissue and improve joint function. Smoothies are great because they are easy to make and they taste delicious!
Sweet Potato:
According to a TMJ specialist in Albuquerque, sweet potatoes are a great option to get relief from the TMJ discomfort. Not only are sweet potatoes packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but they also contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the jaw. Sweet potatoes are also high in antioxidants, which can help reduce pain and stiffness.
Yogurt:
Yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which can help keep your digestive system healthy. It is also an excellent source of calcium and protein, both of which help protect your teeth and bones.
When choosing a yogurt to eat, make sure it is free of added sugars or sweeteners. Natural sugars in yogurt are fine, but added sugars can worsen TMJ symptoms. Look for unsweetened Greek yogurt, as this has the most protein and lowest sugar content.
Melons:
Melons are one of the best fruits to eat during TMJ treatment in Albuquerque. Not only are they packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but they also contain hyaluronic acid and natural anti-inflammatories. Melons can help reduce swelling and pain in your jaw, while also providing a soothing, cooling effect. Watermelon is especially beneficial due to its high water content, which helps to keep your body hydrated and reduce inflammation.
If you’re suffering from TMJ, it’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to help manage the symptoms. The foods mentioned above are packed with nutrients that can help reduce inflammation, strengthen the jaw muscles, and provide relief from the pain and stiffness associated with TMJ. Talk to your TMJ dentist in Albuquerque if you have questions.