Diet can have a grand impact on your health, and a healthy diet can greatly improve symptoms of chronic pain. Back pain can see an improvement if a few changes are made. Not to say that you have to give up the occasional brownie or fully loaded nachos, because what would life be without them. But by staying hydrated, adding a bit more of a healthy balance to your diet, and keeping some nutritious habits in mind you can see a big difference in your spine’s health.
If you have back pain, skimping on good nutrition might be making things harder. A few changes can make a big difference for your spine.
Try these tips for a healthier back:
1. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of liquids helps the entire body function well, but has special importance for the spine and back. The spinal discs are mainly made up of water, and keeping them well hydrated helps improve flexibility, so they can perform their vital role as shock absorbers between the spinal vertebrae.
2. Go for balance
If you favor comfort foods, with vegetables few and far between, it’s time to branch out. You don’t need to change everything overnight, but start working more leafy vegetables, whole grains, fish, avocados, and seeds into your diet. These foods are all great sources of magnesium, a key mineral in keeping bones strong and strengthening back muscles. Eating a wide range of foods helps your body get the needed vitamins and minerals.
3. Know your nutrients
Calcium is one of the best known nutrients for bone health, and can be key in preventing osteoporosis. It’s best to get your calcium from foods, rather than supplements, if you can. Dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium.
Vitamin D goes hand-in-hand with calcium, helping the body absorb calcium. If you’re low on vitamin D, you’re not alone. Vitamin D occurs naturally in a limited number of foods, such as egg yolks and salmon, and low levels of vitamin D are common. Your doctor may suggest you take a daily supplement to be sure you’re getting enough vitamin D.
Updated: 12/04/2017
Continue reading the original article from Spine Health here.
