A diet high in sugar leads to numerous side effects, including sodium retention and reduced efficiency of the sodium-potassium pump. Because sodium retains water, this retention accumulates in the lower extremities, exacerbating edema symptoms. In the long term, this can affect the nerves, causing numbness and tingling in the feet, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. While this is commonly seen in people with diabetes, even those who are not yet diabetic can experience similar symptoms due to excessive sugar consumption.
Key nutrients for correcting edema
Fortunately, it is possible to correct these imbalances by increasing the intake of certain nutrients, particularly potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B1.
Potassium: an essential mineral
Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of the sodium-potassium pump. However, it is difficult to consume the necessary amount through diet alone. The average person needs 4700 mg of potassium per day, a figure difficult to reach with foods like bananas, which provide only 300 mg per fruit. Consuming 15 bananas a day would be necessary, but this would introduce too much sugar into the body. More suitable alternatives include avocados, salads, or fruits like berries, which provide a greater amount of potassium without the excess sugar.
Magnesium: energy and muscle support
