Amyloidosis is a debilitating disease that attacks various systems in the human body. Amyloid protein is a naturally forming protein within the fibrils. Individuals may suffer from an overproduction of amyloid, causing unnaturally elevated levels of the protein in cells. Amyloidosis can affect the heart, brain, renal systems, macular system, and other parts of the body.

There is no cure for amyloidosis, but it can be managed through both standard medical treatment with some help from the following holistic methods (with doctor approval, of course):

1. Low salt diet

An amyloidosis diet is much like any other healthy diet plan with a few exceptions. Because of the potential for water-weight gain and pain due to fluids overwhelming extremities, foods that cause the body to retain water should be avoided. Patients should introduce a reduced salt diet to reduce fluid collection, a symptom of amyloidosis. Foods that should be avoided due to high-salt content include bacon, chips, canned meats and vegetables, sausage and smoked fish. Nuts are also high in salt and should be avoided.

2. Natural diuretics

There are natural and medicinal diuretics available. Discuss implementing natural diuretics into your diet. This includes coffee and tea, watermelon, asparagus, pineapples, grapes and celery. Including these in your diet will help you to release the liquids that would otherwise collect in extremities.

3. Limit fluid intake

Along with diuretics, adjusting the amount of fluids you ingest will help reduce swelling. Consider limiting your fluid intake to just enough to keep you hydrated. It is important to drink water but drinking a gallon or two of water may exacerbate your swelling and other symptoms and pain.

4. Balanced diet

Like with anyone, if a person suffers from amyloidosis, a balanced diet is a must. Include proteins like yogurt and fish, carbohydrates like whole grains and rice, healthy fats like dairy and saturated fats and foods rich in vitamins and minerals like broccoli and brightly colored fruits and vegetables.

5. Stay active

Amyloidosis can cause a person to feel weak and tired. Though you may not want to move, it is important to keep joints and muscles flexible. Avoid strenuous exercises like cardio, but yoga, Tai chi, and weight or walking programs should help to improve the overall energy level and fight pain related to the disease.

6. Rest

As important as it is to keep moving, sleep is also necessary to help your body combat the invasion of amyloid protein that is causing you pain. Implementing a meditation program before bedtime will help combat nighttime insomnia therefore reducing daytime tiredness. Using breathing and meditation exercises, sleep will come easier.

7. Massage

Fluid flows downward therefore feet and legs receive most fluid buildup. A foot massage will help reduce pain in the lower extremities and help improve circulation. Improved circulation will assist your body’s natural functions to reduce fluids. Increased blood flow in your feet and calves will help relieve discomfort and pain, too.