Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdoferi bacterium that resides in a tick bite. Antibiotics are the main treatment for Lyme disease; however, nutrition can play a key role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Lyme disease can trigger chronic inflammation in the body. When the body is inflamed, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications. Reducing the inflammation associated with Lyme disease is a top priority. One of the most effective approaches to dealing with Lyme disease is the Mediterranean diet. Known for its emphasis on whole foods, healthy fats, and plant-based ingredients, it has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
The Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits and vegetables that provide an abundance of vitamins C and E. These vitamins play a major role in decreasing inflammation. Vitamin C helps the immune system function properly and stay healthy, as well as protects the body from free radicals that cause inflammation. Foods rich in vitamin C include red peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli, and tomatoes. Vitamin E is a known antioxidant and, therefore, also helps reduce inflammation in the body. It has been widely recommended to supplement with vitamin E if living with chronic inflammation conditions. Vitamin E food products include but are not limited to sunflower seeds, almonds, and hazelnuts.
Omega-3 fatty acids, another key part of the Mediterranean diet, are known to help reduce inflammation. Salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, soybeans, and many more foods can help reduce the production of harmful substances during the body’s response to inflammation and, because of that, reduce the side effects of chronic inflammation. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet will not only help reduce inflammation but also help reduce your likelihood of developing additional diseases. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole foods that provide B vitamins, blood sugar regulation, and fiber – all areas that can be disrupted by Lyme disease.
Other Helpful Foods
The Mediterranean diet is a healing powerhouse, but there are additional anti-inflammatory foods that can help treat the side effects of Lyme disease. For joint pain with Lyme disease, turmeric, a spice, when mixed with healthy fats and black pepper, can help support joint health and reduce inflammation, making it a wonderful addition to the diet of someone with Lyme disease. Green tea and ginger are also anti-inflammatory favorites.
An often-overlooked aspect of nutrition with Lyme disease is gut health. Antibiotics commonly prescribed for treatment can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues and a weakened immune system. This is where probiotics play a vital role. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help repair and restore the gut microbiome. While there are probiotics supplements, which can be a low-stress, simple addition to your daily routine, there are also foods known to naturally contain probiotics. Fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kombucha are excellent sources of probiotics.
It is also beneficial to include prebiotic foods or supplements to feed the probiotic properties. Foods rich in prebiotics include garlic, asparagus, and bananas. Whether it is as simple as adding a probiotic supplement into your daily routine or making healthy and beneficial food choices, probiotics are essential for your overall well-being in relation to Lyme disease.
A healthy diet is important for managing Lyme disease. Together, the dietary recommendations listed above provide a different approach to supporting the body’s fight against Lyme disease. When dealing with different diseases such as Lyme, it is important to consult with a registered dietitian to ensure you’re making healthy dietary changes.
Maura Stewart, MS, RDN, CD-N, graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences. She continued her education and graduated from the University of Saint Joseph with a Master of Nutrition with a concentration in sports nutrition in 2023. Maura has been a dietitian with Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness since August 2024.
Bookings with Maura are available at 860.357.2282 or visit: www.grantsnutrition.com.
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