Have you ever wondered if what you are eating could be influencing your pain?
Did you know that altering your diet can play a significant role in regulating pain and inflammation? Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can cause damage to healthy cells which may result in muscle, tissue or joint pain. Long-term inflammation has also been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
One of the most effective ways to fight against chronic inflammation is by being conscious of the foods you consume. An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on increasing the intake of foods that combat inflammation, whilst avoiding foods that are known to contribute to inflammation. A diet high in saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods has been associated with increased inflammation and an increased risk of chronic diseases. In contrast, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve health outcomes.
So what should I and shouldn't I be eating?
Foods to avoid (pro-inflammatory):
· Fried foods
· Processed meats & red meats
· Refined carbohydrates (eg: white bread, white pasta & sweet desserts)
· Soft drinks
· Alcohol
Foods to consume (anti-inflammatory):
· Green leafy vegetables
· Fatty fish (eg: salmon, mackerel & tuna)
· Tomatoes
· Fruit (Blueberries, strawberries, oranges and cherries)
· Olive & avocado oil
· Dark chocolate
· Nuts & seeds
Why it is important for you.
The food we eat plays a critical role in regulating pain and inflammation. An anti-inflammatory diet can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health outcomes. By being conscious of the foods we consume and incorporating small, gradual changes to our diet, we can improve our pain management and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases associated with long-term inflammation.