Bad Foods for Chronic Back Pain in Santa Monica, CA

Watching what you eat is one of the most common preventative tips Santa Monica spinal surgeons give patients who are living with chronic pain. This is because just about everything in the foods you eat will eventually make its way to the tissues that supply necessary nutrients to your joints, bones, and muscles. Knowing what foods to avoid, or at least consume in moderation, may minimize your daily experiences with recurring pain. Here are 5 foods to consider eliminating from your diet.

1. Egg Yolks

Though egg yolks are full of essential vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids that have well-documented health benefits, the arachidonic acid in yolks may aggravate inflammation. A diet with too many eggs could also be a source of joint pain if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Trans Fats

Resulting when hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oils, trans fatty acids are linked to a variety of health issues. There’s also evidence trans fats may contribute to inflammation throughout your body. In general, processed foods should also be avoided due to excessive trans fats and an assortment of artificial chemicals.

3. Gluten

Formed from a mix of two proteins, gluten can trigger inflammation if you’re sensitive to it. Switching to a gluten-free diet may provide relief if you have an intolerance or sensitivity to gluten.

4. Fried Foods

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are needed to complete certain processes within the body, but should only be consumed in moderation. Fried foods contain high amounts of these fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids in particular can trigger pain flare-ups. Foods cooked at high temperatures may also be a source of inflammation.

5. Beer

If you’re susceptible to arthritis-related conditions, drinking too much beer may increase your risk of experiencing chronic pain. Having a few beers a day may also boost your odds of developing gout, a painful form of arthritis, by as much as 200 percent.

For additional tips on how to reduce your chronic pain, get in touch with the expert surgeons at The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration. We specialize in spinal fusion surgery and alternatives to spinal fusion like Mobi-C artificial disc replacement and spinal stimulation. Call 310-828-7757 today to schedule your in-person appointment.