Because jaw movement can play such a huge role in your TMJD, dietary changes can have a beneficial impact.
Here are some tips that we have learned through trial and error:
- Avoid caffeinated drinks since they are a stimulant, and will make you more likely to grind your teeth.
- Since repetitive jaw motions tend to aggravate TMJ symptoms, it is wise to steer clear of any foods that need a large amount of chewing.
- Chew equally on both sides of the mouth to avoid overusing one side.
- Avoid saturated fats and fried foods, they tend to increase inflammation.
- Try eating 4-5 small meals throughout the day instead of 3 large meals.
Add foods that will reduce inflammation such as:
1. Healthy oils like olive oil, grape seed oil, or walnut oil.
2. Cut back on red meats. When you do eat red meat, chose the
leanest cuts. (Lean red meat is an excellent source of vital minerals
like zinc, iron and magnesium).
3. Soybeans, tofu, and soy milk are great sources of soy proteins
and may help to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Blueberries and strawberries are packed with anti-inflammatory
phytochemicals and antioxidants.
- Avoid foods such as hamburgers, large sandwiches and apples that require opening the jaw wide to bite.
- It is very important to keep well hydrated.
- Don’t forget to drink your orange juice, it is packed with Vitamin C and helps in repairing connective tissues as well as being a good anti-inflammatory.
- Tofu is a great source of protein and calcium.
- Avocados are a great alternative to yogurt, and believe it or not, they are great in smoothies.