Improve your Spine Health with these 6 Foods
By Nmami Agarwal 22-Dec 2021 Reading Time: 4 Mins
Food has the power to heal all health concerns. Similarly, health issues related to the spine can be very challenging, if neglected. Our genetic predisposition and our microbiome health, which relates to the gut flora and our ability to digest and absorb nutrients, can directly affect spinal pain, skeletal integrity, and our ability to heal and recover from surgery or injury faster. Therefore, it is important to include foods that will minimize inflammation and eventually support your overall bone health.
Read below and incorporate these 6 wonderful foods in your diet to improve your spine health:
- Fish: Fish, mainly salmon is a great source of lean protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid promotes good bone & tissue health and reduces inflammation which is going to be beneficial for spine health. Salmon can be prepared in plenty of ways enriched with flavours and can be helpful for your back too.
- Green leafy vegetables: Green leafy vegetables are power-packed with magnesium, iron, calcium, and folate which the body uses to promote bone and neurological health. The antioxidant content in it protects the cells and is ideal for people recovering from spinal cord injury. Incorporate green leafy vegetables in your diet like spinach, broccoli, kale, and cabbage to keep the bones and tissues of the spine healthy.
- Dairy products: Good dosage of calcium and vitamin D in your diet can prove beneficial in maintaining a healthy spine. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt will help prevent osteoporosis due to the ample amount of calcium in them. But remember; do not binge on too many dairy products as it could increase fat and cholesterol level in your body.
- Lentils: Lentils and beans are rich in vital nutrients such as protein, folate, iron, and fibre that are responsible for promoting spine health. Also, a rich source of protein food helps in maintaining and repairing bones, cartilages, and soft tissues in the spine.
- Avocados: Avocados are great for spine health and they contain fibre and potassium which boosts overall health. Being an anti-inflammatory food, it is good for relieving back pain and the potassium content that will help reduce swelling.
- Orange coloured foods: Orange coloured foods like carrots, oranges, and papaya help promote good spinal health. Calcium, vitamin A and C, omega-3 fatty acids in these foods will help to reduce inflammation, severe back pain and promote spine health. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemon contain vitamin C helps in the healing process and collagen formation, which is essential for healthy bones and connective tissues.
Over to you:
With the right nutritional care, anything can be healed. Likewise, foods rich in essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, folate, and fibre can promote good spinal health along with exercise under a doctor’s supervision. Incorporate the above-mentioned superfoods in your diet and keep spine-related problems at bay!