Fact 10: Dietary Cautions
Diet plays a more significant role in Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) than one might initially presume. Specific foods and drinks can either exacerbate or alleviate the burning sensation, making dietary choices a key aspect of managing BMS.
Some foods and beverages are notorious for aggravating BMS symptoms. Spicy foods, acidic items like citrus fruits, or tomatoes can be triggers for many. Furthermore, alcoholic beverages, particularly those rich in tannins like red wines, can amplify the burning sensation. Tobacco, too, is a known irritant, often exacerbating symptoms in those with BMS.
On the flip side, certain dietary choices can provide momentary relief. Cold foods or drinks, for instance, can act as a soothing balm against the burn. Many with BMS find solace in sipping chilled water or occasionally munching on ice chips to counteract the burning sensation.
Crafting a BMS-friendly diet isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. It’s an individual journey, rife with trials and errors. Employing tools like a food diary can be immensely beneficial. It allows individuals to track, pinpoint, and subsequently eliminate or reduce intake of foods that trigger or worsen their symptoms. (10)
