Foods to Avoid
Before we move on to the best foods to consume with a TMJ disorder, it is also important to know what are the types of foods we should avoid consuming. One of the most obvious types of food people suffering from TMJ disorder should avoid are foods that are hard, chewy, and difficult to consume. Consuming hard food such as meat requires more jaw activation, resulting in further pain and slower recovery.
Vegetables
One of the best foods to consume when you have a TMJ disorder is undoubtedly vegetables. Other than the fact that most vegetables are easy to chew and consume, most vegetables contain flavonoids, which are essentially a group of phytonutrients that act as a natural anti-inflammatory substance.
However, do note that not all vegetables are ideal for consumption. With a TMJ disorder, you are advised to avoid hard and crunchy vegetables such as crisp celery as well as raw carrots.
Fluids
Since most pain associated with consuming meals result from chewing on hard items, getting your nutrients through fluids will be a good alternative. These can range from anything from a bowl of chicken broth to milk and fresh fruit juices. After a period of liquid diet, your jaw would have more time needed for a speedy recovery.
Magnesium-Rich Foods
Magnesium is known to be effective in relaxing the body’s nervous system, making it perfect for those suffering from a TMJ disorder. Some examples of magnesium-rich foods include dark leafy greens, lentils, avocados, dried fruits, beans, as well as low-fat dairy products.
Calcium-Rich Foods
Just like magnesium, calcium can also be just as effective in alleviating TMJ-related pain. Some great calcium-rich foods include unpolished rice, spinach, green peas, oranges, cabbage, bananas, as well as coconut.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your TMJ pain doesn’t get better or even worsens over time, then we highly advise that you seek professional advice. While TMJ might seem to be a small problem, the problem can become worse if the joint stay misaligned for a long time.
If you are looking for an institute to seek help for your TMJ pain, then we highly recommend that you consider Head Pain Institute. At Head Pain Institute, they are highly experienced in treating TMJ pain, so you can rely on their treatment options so you can be pain-free again.
