How Diet Can Affect Your Back Pain

An old adage claims that we are what we eat, and this could prove true. We know that inflammation in the body can result in pain. Think of arthritic joints swelling up becoming inflamed and painful.

The same inflammation response causing pain symptoms can occur when certain foods are eaten. Some food will increase inflammation and other foods lower it.

Diets High in Fats & Sugar Increases Risks of Obesity

Eating too many fats and sugary foods can result in significant weight gain. Most obese people have eaten poorly filling their bodies with saturated fats, high sugar content and unhealthy preservatives and salt used in prepackaged foods able to be stored for long periods of time.

Higher amounts of belly fat can cause significant strain on the core abdominal muscles that are designed to hold the spine and upper body upright and in alignment. Just like a woman in late stages of pregnancy, too much weight around the midsection can pose a huge strain on our vulnerable backs and other musculoskeletal structures. The end result is inflamed muscle tissue and lower back pain.

Misaligned Spine Causes Higher Risk for Back Injuries & Pain

When our spine and neck become misaligned, there is a greater risk for back and neck injuries according to chiropractors in Holladay, Utah. Since muscle tissue needs the proper nutrients to heal any strains or injuries, a diet that is poor in healthy foods may result in more frequent body pain issues and more muscle and tendon injuries that could impede nerves due to the surrounding inflammation. Many foods are considered pro-inflammatory. These include:

  • White Flour, Pastas, Rice etc.
  • Red Meats
  • Whole-Fat Dairy Products
  • Sugary Foods & Beverages
  • Fried & Fatty Foods
  • Over-Processed Foods & Snacks

Foods That Are Good for Back Pain That Are Counter Inflammatory

Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Incorporate more raw and wholesome foods into your overall diet. Best foods to decrease back pain and counter inflammatory response include:

  • Lean Proteins & Unsaturated Fats
  • High-Level Antioxidant Foods
  • Grains, Seeds, Nuts & Kidney Beans
  • Glass of Red Wine
  • Lots of Water
  • Mediterranean Diet

Holistic Medicine

Holistic care seeks to treat the body as a whole. Chiropractic care, doctor assisted weight loss and nutritional counseling in can all help to decrease back pain and inflammation. A holistic approach may incorporate complementary treatments towards healing.

Click here to contact Genesis Chiropractic Salt Lake City, Utah.