Best Nutritional Adjustments When Fighting Spinal Stenosis

If you are one of the many people in Memorial Area, Texas, who suffer from spinal stenosis, you know how debilitating the condition can be. Not only does spinal stenosis cause pain in the back and neck, but it can also make it difficult to walk, stand, or even sit for long periods. Speak with a spinal stenosis Memorial Area specialist for assistance in managing the condition. On the other hand, you can make several nutritional adjustments to help ease the symptoms of spinal stenosis. Here are some of the best:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Increase your intake of omega-3 oils. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining joint health, and they can also help reduce inflammation in the spine. You can find omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements or get them from fatty fish like salmon, trout, and herring.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D. Both calcium and vitamin D are essential for maintaining bone health. They can also help reduce the risk of spinal fractures in people with spinal stenosis. You can find calcium and vitamin D in dairy products, fortified foods, and supplements.
Eat A lot of Vegetables
Vegetables are high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the spine. In addition, vegetables are low in calories and nutrients, making them a good choice for people with spinal stenosis trying to lose weight. Try to include a variety of different vegetables in your diet each day.
Limit Fatty and Processed Foods
Fatty and processed foods are high in calories and unhealthy fats, contributing to weight gain. In addition, these foods often contain added sugars and chemicals that can be harmful to the spine. Try to limit your fatty and processed foods intake and replace them with healthy, whole foods instead.
Consume Enough Proteins
Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, and it can also help reduce inflammation in the spine. Try to include a variety of high-quality proteins in your diet each day. Good protein sources include meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts.
Avoid Very Low-Calorie Diets
Very low-calorie diets can cause weight loss, but they can also be harmful to the spine. When you lose weight too quickly, your body starts to break down muscle mass, leading to further inflammation and spinal problems. Try to maintain a healthy weight by making gradual changes to your diet and exercise habits.
Take Collagen Supplements
Collagen is a protein that helps keep bones and joints healthy. Some research suggests that collagen supplements can help reduce inflammation in the spine and improve joint function in people with spinal stenosis. You can find collagen supplements in most health food stores.
Eat Foods Rich in Magnesium and Zinc
Both magnesium and zinc are essential minerals that play a role in maintaining bone health. Zinc is also critical for reducing inflammation. You can find magnesium and zinc in many foods, including legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Zinc is also vital for boosting the formation of bone-building cells. This is important because people with spinal stenosis are often at risk for developing osteoporosis.
Making these nutritional adjustments can help you manage your spinal stenosis more effectively and improve your quality of life. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about the best way to adjust your diet for your condition.