Eight out of ten people will suffer from back pain in their life. Lifestyle habits like exercise, yoga, and positive thinking can help these people find some measure of relief. It’s possible to take pain relief into the kitchen as well in order to create a healthy back pain diet focused around anti-inflammatory foods. Consider adding these seven foods into your diet in order to find some relief.
7 foods to include in your health back pain diet
When possible, try to incorporate these foods to reduce your pain.
1. Broccoli
From possible cancer prevention benefits to anti-inflammation, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli can pack a big punch when it comes to your back health. Researchers are now finding that vitamin K, a prominent vitamin in broccoli and other leafy green vegetables, may actually help make your bones stronger. With stronger bones, the risk for injury decreases as does the risk for back pain.
2. Cherries
Cherries–especially tart varieties–are now being studied for their possible pain-fighting effects. They contain anthocyanins, a chemical that may have the same anti-inflammatory, pain reducing benefits of aspirin. While researchers are still studying their exact benefits, indulging on some fresh cherries certainly doesn’t carry any side effects.
3. Garlic
People who suffer from back pain that is caused by arthritis could find some pain relief in the form of garlic. These tasty veggies are the cornerstone of many anti-inflammatory diets. They may actually contain some of the same anti-inflammatory chemicals as ibuprofen.
4. Olive oil
Good, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids like the kinds found in olive oil are also known to help reduce inflammation in the body. Olive oil in particular, however, contains another pain fighting compound, oleocanthal, that may even pack a greater anti-inflammatory punch.
5. Onions
Much like garlic, onions may reduce inflammation within the body. Thankfully, they also provide lots of taste with little calories that can be used to flavor foods instead of more harmful sugar and salt.
6. Turmeric
Bright yellow turmeric contains curcumin, an ingredient that may provide some anti-inflammatory benefits. You’ll find this spice most often used in Indian foods, however, it makes a tasty addition to many types of cuisines.
7. Tahini
Magnesium-rich tahini may actually help relieve muscle tension. Magnesium is a mild natural muscle relaxant that is found in abundance in tahini. Made from sesame seeds, tahini is most often used in the U.S. in the preparation of hummus, but it’s also delicious as a salad dressing or used similarly to peanut or almond butter.
Now that you have the foundation foods for your healthy back pain diet, which are you most excited to try in your own kitchen? Contact one of our doctors today for even more help for your back pain.