As most patients are well aware, good nutrition and a balanced diet are important components of overall health. What may surprise people with back problems is that diet, nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight also play a major role in the back – including preventing many problems and healing from injuries.
The bones, muscles and other structures in the spine need good nutrition and vitamins so that they are strong enough to support the body and to perform their other functions. The spine is essentially the lifeline of the body, meaning that anything that improves its function improves the bodies healing ability, lifestyle output (the extra lifestyle that being healthy ensures) and longevity.
Magnesium is important for the relaxing and contracting of muscles. It also helps maintain muscle tone and bone density, which in turn can help prevent back problems.
Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps keep your body in good shape. Foods high in antioxidants, such as green, leafy vegetables and berries, may be helpful in fighting inflammation.
Some other anti-inflammatory spices were found in a recent study. They found consumption of these markedly reduced the inflammatory response in white blood cells. Even at the “everyday” dosage amounts given, four spices were found to be significantly effective at quelling the inflammatory response:
- Cloves
- Ginger
- Rosemary
- Turmeric
A recent study, with a highly bioavailable form of turmeric, found that it improved pain levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis suffers more than the anti-inflammatory voltarin.
Its also a good idea to lighten up on the excessive caffeine, alcohol, and sugar–all things that increase cortisol levels. Excess cortisol leads to connective tissue damage, and ultimately increased pain levels.
Cameron Finlayson is a Chiropractor in Auckland, New Zealand for the last 21 years.