Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is challenging,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments positively help, the power of nutrition can significantly
influence your pain levels. Recent studies show
that dietary changes can substantially impact musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's explore how nutrition is key for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It is increasingly clear
that inflammation has an important role
in musculoskeletal pain, which involves conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods impact
inflammation, thereby impacting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Adding
anti-inflammatory foods can ease pain and improve
overall health:
- Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in
omega-3 fatty acids and have been shown to reduce
inflammation.
- Fruits and vegetables - Berries, leafy greens, and
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts have
antioxidants and phytonutrients to combat inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds offer
fundamental nutrients that boost joint health.
- Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with
anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
Foods to Avoid – Some foods can irritate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should curb:
- Processed foods are full of trans fats,
sugars, and artificial additives, these foods can promote
inflammation.
- Refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary drinks can
boot blood sugar levels and lead to increased
inflammation.
- Red and processed meats contain high levels of
saturated fats, causing inflammation.
INSIGHTS FROM RECENT STUDIES
Study 1: Dietary Practices and Rheumatic Diseases - A study
led by Renard D. et al., and published in Joint Bone Spine (1), investigated
patients with rheumatic diseases, revealing that advocates of anti-inflammatory diets experienced
significant pain relief and better quality of life.
Study 2: Nutrition's Role in Chronic Pain Management - Research
by Cuomo A. and Parascandolo I., published in J Pain Res (2), demonstrated
that a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is an effective supplement
to traditional pain management strategies.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by expanding your intake
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains bit by bit
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre or a nutritionist to
get personalized advice.
Stay steady and committed to
your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre
As part of an overall Toronto chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising way to
manage musculoskeletal pain. By incorporating
anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that worsen
inflammation, significant strides can be taken toward a pain-free daily living. Consulting
with your Toronto chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications
to your lifestyle, paving the way to better
health.
By choosing better dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve
their current treatment plans effectively. Note, Toronto chiropractic care and changes in diet can be your friend in attaining
overall well-being.
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with
Dr. Michael Johnson as he discusses how spinal
manipulation like with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management might have
an impact on the immune system and even potentially
inflammation.
Schedule your Toronto chiropractic
appointment today to see us!