Foods to Eliminate to Benefit Your Joints
Joint and muscle pain is often due to inflammation. Inflammation can be caused by injuries, overuse, and conditions like arthritis. While a lot of the time this inflammation can be managed or reduced through physical therapy,
chiropractic care, medications, etc., there is something to be said for how our diets affect our bodies.
There are many foods, vitamins, and supplements known for their anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric, olive oil, cherries, and tomatoes. Many of these kinds of foods are also high in antioxidants.
If someone suffers from chronic joint pain, swelling, or inflammation anywhere within the body (or externally), adjusting their diet may help reduce it. Of course, people who have been prescribed medication by their doctor should not eliminate their medication in the hopes a new diet will fix everything. However, changing your diet by eliminating known inflammatory foods can certainly aid in reducing your pain and discomfort.
Common Inflammatory Foods
Below is a list of some common inflammatory foods you may not have known cause inflammation in the human body. Reducing the intake of these foods, or eliminating them, may greatly benefit those suffering from chronic pain, joint inflammation, diseases such as arthritis, or even acne.
- Sugar
- Gluten
- Alcohol (in excess)
- Saturated Fats
- Fried Foods
- Red and Processed Meat
- Margarine/Lard
It is important to note that while inflammation can cause minor aches and pains, chronic inflammation has also been linked to more severe problems such as depression, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. Therefore, even if you do not suffer from swollen joints or other noticeable inflammation, reducing inflammatory foods in your diet can still greatly benefit your overall health.
Physical Therapy in Skokie & Chicago
If you think your pain may be due to inflammation, and need some help finding the best ways to reduce it, contact Chicago Chiropractic & Sports Injury Centers today. Our team is here to offer you professional physical therapy and chiropractic services that help get rid of pain and swelling in your muscles, joints, and other areas of your body. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our four locations.