Is My Diet Causing Back Pain?

Many factors can cause chronic back pain. These range from inherited conditions to degenerative disc disease, to repetitive strain, to trauma-induced damage from a fall, a sports injury, or a car accident.

While the initial cause may be beyond your control, studies show you can help. If you maintain a healthy weight, stay fit and active, and - pain permitting - engage in training and stretching routines like yoga, you can improve your overall health and avoid further injury or worsening pain.

But What About Diet?

Recent reports suggest that foods that cause an inflammatory response in the digestive organs can spread inflammation to the joints, which potentially can cause instability and back pain. Authorities ranging from the Arthritis Foundation to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that modifications to your diet may help avoid this inflammation domino effect.

Avoid These Foods & Help Yourself Avoid Back Pain

• Processed foods, from hot dogs to microwave meals to 'nutrition' bars that are in reality high in sugar or high-fructose corn syrup
• Carbonated sodas, both regular and diet
• Vegetable shortening
• Margarine
• Trans fats
• Foods high in saturated fat: bacon, sausage, many vegetable oils
• Artificial sugars

Foods That May Help With Back Pain

Here's a list of foods, herbs, and seasonings that may help you lower the risk of inflammation, and with a sensible diet and adequate exercise, achieve a less-painful life style:

• Magnesium-rich foods: salmon, spinach, eggplant and bananas
• Albacore white tuna and other fish (packed in water, not vegetable oil)
• Canned sardines
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Black pepper (aids absorption)
• Garlic
• Rosemary
• Basil
• Fresh fennel
• Almonds, pecans and other nuts
• Pomegranate
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Brussels sprouts
• Cabbage
• Rice
• Green leafy vegetables
• Green tea
• Onions
• Olive oil