Explain
Certain foods and nutrients can modulate the complex cellular metabolism that sustains chronic inflammation. They will not relieve pain quickly in the way that conventional medications do but generally have to be used over a period of weeks and months before they take effect. But they will affect the underlying physiological mechanisms of inflammation and degeneration, which the NSAIDs do not.
Red meat can aggravate or cause chronic back pain. Uric acid contained in red meat can cause joint inflammation. Furthermore, the body uses the arachidonic acid in animal fat to manufacture series-2 Prostaglandins, hormone-like substances which worsen inflammation. Vegetables such as potatoes, soy beans, and other legumes, and cold-water fish should replace animal meat as the main source of protein.
Nuts and seeds are another excellent source of protein and provide other significant health benefits. Nut and seed oils, as well as fish oil, contain essential fatty acids which the body converts to series-1 or series-3 Prostaglandins. These Prostaglandins derived from vegetable sources act as anti-inflammatory agents. Almonds, walnuts, and peanuts are particularly beneficial, due to their high magnesium content. Magnesium is not only a constituent of bone and cartilage but also maintains muscle tone. Chronic back pain is often a symptom of poor abdominal muscle tone.
The diet should include a wide variety of raw vegetables and fruits, and whole-grain cereals to provide the nutrients needed for the maintenance of bones, nerves, and muscles, all of which contribute to a strong and supple back. Eat oatmeal, porridge, or a Swiss muesli made with soaked oats every morning. These foods are excellent sources of silica, which is particularly important for building strong bones, and B vitamins, which support muscle and nerve health.
Calcium and magnesium are vital for the muscles and bones and help alleviate muscle spasms if they exist. Silica is also highly recommended to improve bone structure. Bioflavonoids and vitamins C and E are essential for maintaining connective tissue and are useful for alleviating disk injuries. Vitamin C also helps if calcium absorption is poor due to inadequate stomach acid. Evening primrose oil is an excellent, mild anti-inflammatory and is useful whether the source of the pain is sciatica or muscle spasms.
Recommended Daily Dosages
Most Important
Calcium - 1,000 mg
Magnesium - 500 mg
Note: Consult your physician if you are suffering from any kidney problems before taking these supplements.
Helpful:
Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400-800 IU
The antioxidants and the antioxidant precursors and cofactors:
Whenever there is an inflammatory reaction in the body, toxic substances called free radicals are released. These free radicals can cause further damage to tissue, which again increases the inflammation in a kind of vicious circle. Enhancing the antioxidant reaction in the body can help relieve symptoms caused by inflammation.
Vitamin C:
This is an essential antioxidant, which can support healing of musculoskeletal injuries and relieve chronic pain.
Recommended dosage: up to 2000-3000 milligrams per day.
Bioflavonoids such as quercetin and catechin:
Used with vitamin C. They have an antioxidant effect and also diminish capillary permeability,
which can directly reduce joint inflammation and swelling.
Vitamin E:
This has both an anti-inflammatory and an immune regulating effect.
Recommended dosage: up to 800 International Units per day.