Diet and Back Pain: Is There a Connection?
Could the foods you’re eating be contributing to your back pain? Possibly.
It’s no secret that good nutrition and a balanced diet are key factors of good health – but what may surprise some people is that certain foods we eat can directly affect our spine and influence back pain. Just like other areas of our bodies, proper nutrition plays a vital role in keeping our bones and muscles strong. It’s no different for the bones and muscles of the spine. If they aren’t strong enough to support the body, or if there is significant inflammation throughout the area, the result is often pain.
What is nutrition?
Nutrients are the chemical elements that make up food, which essentially influence the growth, energy, and function of our bodies. Nutrition, therefore, is the process of taking in the nutrients from the food you eat and the liquids you drink.
To help reduce back pain and other spine problems, it is important to focus on eating a balanced diet with the right amount and variety of vitamins and nutrients. This also means avoiding foods that can interfere with the absorption of the healthy nutrients we are trying to feed our body with.
Good foods for those with back pain
If you’re prone to back pain, the goal should be to focus on adding nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods to your diet. Foods rich in magnesium, calcium, Vitamin D, and Omega-3s are good places to start. Some foods that contain these nutrients include:
- Leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, cabbage, broccoli, and turnip
- Avocados
- Fish
- Eggs
- Oils, mainly olive, fish, and flaxseed
- Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese
- Whole grains and seeds
- Fruits, especially berries
Additionally, it is important to understand that certain drinks like soda, coffee, and alcohol can limit your body’s ability to absorb calcium. Be sure to drink these in moderation. Depending on the severity of your back pain, your back specialist may suggest that you avoid them altogether.
Eating a well-balanced diet should give you the necessary amount of nutrients your body needs each day. In some cases, however, you may need to complement your diet by taking supplements or a multivitamin. talk to your doctor before taking supplements since they can interact with medications you may be using. Dr. Fayaz can help patients in The Woodlands and surrounding areas that are experiencing back pain. Call to schedule your appointment.