Over the past 30 years I have found many cases of back pain only improve once diet and nutritional causes are worked on.
Recently I had the pleasure of meeting Fiona, a local Hertfordshire GP, who found her own chronic back pain was food related.
Watch the video to learn more about her story, and the foods that she eliminated.
And read the related article below. Read to the end for links to a couple of free courses, and how to contact Fiona.
For those in a hurry – Fiona’s main trigger was grains, especially oats!
Poor Nutrition and Back Pain
Back pain and disc problems are prevalent health issues that affect millions of people worldwide and we see them daily in the clinic.
While mechanical factors such as posture and physical activity are well-known contributors, the role of nutrition in influencing these conditions is gaining attention.
Poor nutrition can exacerbate pain and contribute to disc degeneration, with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) playing a significant role.
The Role of Poor Nutrition in Back Pain
1. Inflammation and Pain
– Poor nutrition, characterized by high intake of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, can lead to systemic inflammation. Inflammation is a known factor in chronic pain conditions, including back pain.
– A diet high in refined sugars and trans fats can increase inflammatory markers in the body, potentially exacerbating pain and contributing to conditions like sciatica and disc degeneration.
2. Nutrient Deficiencies
– Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as Vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium can weaken bone and muscle structure, increasing the risk of back pain and disc problems.
– Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain. A lack of these nutrients may lead to increased inflammation and pain sensitivity.
3. Obesity and Mechanical Stress
– Poor nutrition often leads to obesity, which places additional mechanical stress on the spine, contributing to back pain and disc degeneration.
– Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can alter posture and increase the load on the lumbar spine, exacerbating pain.
Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) and Pain
1. What are AGEs?
– AGEs are harmful compounds formed when proteins or fats combine with sugars in the bloodstream through a process called glycation. They are found in high amounts in processed foods and are also formed during high-temperature cooking methods like frying and grilling.
2. AGEs and Inflammation
– AGEs contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can exacerbate pain conditions. They have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are associated with increased pain perception.
3. AGEs and Disc Degeneration
– Research indicates that AGEs can accumulate in intervertebral discs, leading to increased stiffness and reduced elasticity. This accumulation can contribute to disc degeneration and associated pain.
– A study published in *The Spine Journal* (2013) found that AGEs are associated with increased disc degeneration and decreased disc height, suggesting a direct link between AGEs and spinal health.
Scientific Studies Supporting Mine and Fionas Clinical Observations
1. Nutrition and Inflammation
– A study in *The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition* (2006) found that a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars increases inflammatory markers, contributing to chronic pain conditions.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Pain Reduction
– Research in *Pain* (2006) demonstrated that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids reduced pain and inflammation in patients with chronic back pain.
3. AGEs and Disc Health
– A study in *The Journal of Orthopaedic Research* (2012) showed that AGEs contribute to the degradation of collagen in intervertebral discs, leading to increased stiffness and pain.
Complexity of Back Pain
– Although dietary changes can reduce inflammation and pain, the effectiveness of these interventions may vary. A study in *The Journal of Pain* (2014) found that while some patients experienced significant pain relief with dietary changes, others did not, suggesting the need for personalized approaches.
– Back pain is a multifactorial condition, and while nutrition plays a role, it is not the sole factor. Mechanical issues, psychological factors, and lifestyle choices also contribute significantly to back pain, as highlighted in a review in *The Lancet* (2018).
Summary
Poor nutrition, characterised by a high intake of processed foods and sugars, can exacerbate back pain and contribute to disc degeneration through mechanisms involving inflammation and AGEs. While dietary interventions hold promise for reducing pain, they should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and psychological support.
For more help call us on 01707 662 704
Or try our free courses:
Back Pain: https://bodyinbalance.clickfunnels.com/10-day-back-pain48240756
Chronic Pain: https://lesspain.gr8.com/
You can reach Dr Fiona here: https://www.hope-for-health.com/
