Living with chronic pain can be an everyday struggle. For many, it can
seem like you are always looking for ways to provide some relief, but
the first place to start might be the easiest shift to make—your
diet. Though it might not take your pain away, adopting better eating
habits can help reduce your chances of chronic inflammation and reduce
flare-ups.
The basic rule of thumb when attempting an anti-inflammatory diet is to
consider upping your fruits, vegetables, and plant-based protein intake.
The Top Foods That Are Thought to Increase Inflammation Include:
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Sugary Beverages: If you get most of your hydration from sugary drinks or diet sodas, it’s
time to switch to water. Your joints, just like the rest of your body,
need to stay hydrated to keep you feeling your best. Your bones are like
a sponge, and the more fluid they lack, the harder it is to move them.
This will
dehydrate your disc, cause stress on the joint, and lead to inflammation, too.
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Sugar: When you have a high intake of sugar, your body will release cytokines,
which are inflammatory messengers. Even added sugars such as honey or
agave should be avoided.
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Refined Carbohydrates. When picking grains and carbs, think oatmeal and brown rice—unrefined
grains have more fiber, which has been thought to help with inflammation.
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Processed Food: Lacking nutrients, processed foods such as high-fat meats, cakes, and
cookies can be more natural to overeat, leading to weight gain.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
The foods you’ll want to stick to are ones loaded with vitamins and
minerals. Think leafy greens like spinach and kale. Berries, fatty fish,
and fresh herbs and spices are all good choices, too. The key is to build
a colorful and nutritious plate.
If joint pain and inflammation are hindering your daily life,
Power River Orthopedics & Spine (PROS) is here to help in Gillette, Wyoming. We can evaluate your options
so you can rest assured that you get the best possible outcome and are
back to a happy and active life in no time.
Call the PROS at 307.686.1413 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/PROS to learn more.
PROS is a Campbell County Medical Group Clinic with
Campbell County Health