How Your Diet Can Affect Your Bulging Disc: Foods to Eat and Avoid
A bulging disc is a common spinal condition that occurs when one of the discs between the vertebrae protrudes out of its normal position. This can cause pain, inflammation, and nerve compression in the affected area. While some factors that contribute to a bulging disc are beyond your control, such as aging, genetics, and injury, there are some things you can do to prevent or reduce the symptoms of this condition. One of them is to pay attention to your diet and avoid foods that can worsen your spinal health. In this article you will learn what foods to avoid with a bulging disc and why they are harmful. It will also provide some tips on what foods to eat instead to support your spine and overall wellbeing.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can increase inflammation, weaken bones, or trigger allergic reactions that can aggravate a bulging disc. Here are some of the foods you should avoid or limit if you have this condition:
- Processed foods – These include foods that are high in salt, sugar, fat, preservatives, additives, and artificial colors and flavors. Processed foods can increase inflammation in the body and cause weight gain, which can put more pressure on the spine. They can also deplete the body of essential nutrients that are needed for bone health and tissue repair.
- Refined carbohydrates – These include white bread, white rice, pasta, pastries, cakes, cookies, and other foods made from refined flour and sugar. Refined carbohydrates can spike blood sugar levels and cause inflammation. They can also lower calcium absorption and weaken bones.
- Alcohol – Alcohol can dehydrate the body and interfere with nutrient absorption. It can also cause inflammation and increase pain sensitivity. Alcohol can also affect posture and balance, which can increase the risk of injury or further damage to the spine.
- Caffeine – Caffeine can stimulate the nervous system and increase pain perception. It can also dehydrate the body and leach calcium from bones. Caffeine can also affect sleep quality, which is essential for healing and recovery.
- Red meat – Red meat can be high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and purines, which can increase inflammation and uric acid levels in the body. Uric acid can form crystals in joints and cause gout, which can affect the spine as well. Eating red meat can also lower the intake of plant-based foods that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Dairy products – Dairy products can be a source of calcium and protein, but they can also trigger allergic reactions or intolerances in some people. This can cause inflammation, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation, which can worsen bulging disc symptoms. Dairy products can also be high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can affect cardiovascular health and blood circulation.
Foods to Eat
Some foods can reduce inflammation, strengthen bones, or promote healing and recovery for a bulging disc. Here are some of the foods you should eat more of if you have this condition:
- Fruits and vegetables – These are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water that can fight inflammation, nourish cells, and hydrate the body. Fruits and vegetables can also provide phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or neuroprotective effects. Some of the best fruits and vegetables for spinal health are berries, cherries, citrus fruits, pineapple, papaya, leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and onions.
- Whole grains – These are complex carbohydrates that provide energy, fiber, and nutrients for the body. Whole grains can regulate blood sugar levels and prevent inflammation. They can also support bone health by providing calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin K. Some of the best whole grains for spinal health are oats, quinoa, brown rice, buckwheat, and millet.
- Lean protein – Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, tendons, ligaments, and discs. Lean protein sources are low in fat and cholesterol, which can benefit cardiovascular health and blood circulation. Some of the best lean protein sources for spinal health are fish, poultry, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts.
- Healthy fats – Fats are important for lubricating joints, cushioning discs, and supporting the nervous system. Healthy fats are unsaturated fats that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, or hormone-balancing effects. Some of the best healthy fats for spinal health are olive oil, avocado, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, almonds, and fish oil.
- Turmeric and ginger – Both turmeric and ginger have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Consider adding these spices to your meals or enjoying them in the form of teas to support your body’s healing process.
Making mindful food choices is crucial when living with a bulging disc. By avoiding inflammatory foods and embracing an anti-inflammatory diet rich in nutrient-dense options, you can support your body’s healing process and alleviate discomfort. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice, and consider working with a nutritionist to create a diet plan tailored to your specific needs. Nourishing your spine through proper nutrition is a proactive step toward a healthier and more comfortable life.
A bulging disc can burst to become a herniated disc. If you have a herniated disc that is not responding to conservative treatment, a form of back surgery called a discectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Although this is generally a very successful procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.