If you are a resident of
Charlotte with back pain, you may feel as if you’ve tried everything to
alleviate your pain and enjoy a higher quality of life, but one important
factor often goes overlooked—nutrition. Nutrition plays a vital role in back
pain, and the alleviation of pain. Proper nutrition can not only contribute the
overall proper functioning of the body’s systems, but maintaining a healthy
weight also plays a pivotal role in back pain.
The bones and muscles that make
up the structure of the spine and back require proper vitamins and nutrients in
order to maintain the strength to support the body and perform their necessary
functions.
Food’s Role in Inflammation
Inflammation of the joints is one
of the primary reasons residents of Charlotte back pain issues.
Inflammation not only leads to back pain, but also other more serious issues,
such as arthritis. Inflammation can be caused by any number of reasons, but one
of the factors that contributes to inflammation lies in the foods we eat.
Processed foods are a prime
contributor to inflammation and, in particular, foods that contain corn,
gluten, dairy and eggs. Some examples of foods that have been shown to increase
the body’s levels of inflammation are fried foods, red meat, oils and foods and
beverages high in sugar, such as juices and sodas. In general, eating a diet
rich in whole, unprocessed foods is one of the best ways to reduce inflammation
levels. Foods that can reduce inflammation associated with joint and back pain
include dark green vegetables, fruits and vegetables with high amounts of
antioxidants and fish rich in Omega-3s. All of these foods can play a pivotal
role in fighting free radicals, which cause inflammation.
The Importance of Calcium
If you are a person in Charlotte
with back pain, it’s also vital to understand the importance of consuming a
diet high in calcium. Calcium strengthens the bones and prevents conditions
such as osteoporosis. Without adequate amounts of calcium, the bones can become
weak and brittle, which can lead to vertebral fractures. Also, if bones are not
strong, they don’t have the ability to support the body properly, which can
lead to pain in various areas of the body.
Vitamin C
A diet rich in Vitamin C is a
very effective way to prevent back pain. Vitamin C is required so that the body
can create collagen, which is used during the process of turning cells into
tissue. For anyone in Charlotte with back pain or injuries, Vitamin C can
promote and encourage the healing process required after injuries that occur to
tendons, ligaments and discs. Additionally, Vitamin C helps keep bones and
tissues strong.
Foods That Reduce Chronic Pain
In addition to eating diets low
in processed foods and ensuring they are receiving an adequate amount of
vitamins and nutrients, for individuals in Charlotte, there are
other interesting foods that have been shown to reduce chronic pain including:
- Ginger and turmeric because of their anti-inflammatory properties
- Pineapple and papaya because of their enzymes that break down proteins that can lead to pain
- Coconut water because it reduces dehydration which can lead to various types of pain
