By 911 Pain Management | June 22nd, 2023 | Pain Management
Our diet affects how we feel and our energy levels, and can greatly influence whether we develop certain health conditions. With a healthy diet, you may be able to better manage any painful conditions you may be suffering from.
Generally, some foods can reduce pain levels when added to your diet, and your McAllen pain doctor at 911 Pain Management is here to help you better understand which foods may help and which may make you feel worse.
Foods That Can Help Your Pain
Painful conditions like arthritis are caused by inflammation, and certain foods may either help to reduce inflammation or increase it. Consider adding the following to your diet to help minimize your pain:
1. Whole Grains
Whole grains can help you feel better and are generally healthier than processed grains. Look for whole grain breads, pasta, brown rice, bulgur, barley, and rye bread. Most of these are labeled, so you should be able to find plenty of options.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is better for you than many other fats. Extra virgin is great for salads, while you can use lower grades for cooking, just make sure you know the smoke point and stay below it. Once the olive oil begins smoking, all the beneficial nutrients break down and you’ll get that horrible burned taste in your meal.
3. Fish and Poultry
Fish and poultry tend to be pretty healthy. For fish, look for cold water species like salmon and with poultry opt for leaner options like turkey, chicken, and cornish hens.
4. Fresh Fruits
Fruits like strawberries, cherries, and other dark fruits have some great anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Fresh Vegetables
Try to make a colorful plate for the best nutrients. Dark leafy greens, broccoli, green beans, and radishes are all good for fighting inflammation.
6. Beans, Seeds, Nuts, and Pod Foods
Any plant that grows in a pod, like peas, tends to be very healthy. Seeds and nuts are wonderful sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and protein. Beans are also a protein powerhouse that won’t add any unhealthy fats to your diet!
7. Spices and Tea
Spices like ginger, turmeric, and herbs are great for reducing inflammation. Teas are also something you can enjoy that can help with inflammation.
Food That Can Make Your Pain Worse
There is also a wide range of foods that you should either cut out or eat sparingly if you deal with severe levels of inflammation. Instead, save these for a special occasion and you may notice an improvement in your pain levels:
1. Red Meat
Red meat like beef and beef products can worsen your pain. Skip the sausages, hamburgers, and beef sandwiches.
2. Processed Grains
Processed grains like white rice, white bread, and instant oatmeal should be avoided.
3. Sugars and High Fructose Corn Syrup
Candy, sodas, and energy drinks are just generally unhealthy and can worsen your pain. Try weaning yourself off to really feel a major difference in your health.
4. Saturated Fats
Saturated fats like lard, margarine, and shortening are not at all good for your health, and you should also avoid corn oils and soybean oils.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol should also be avoided if you suffer from knee pain. Alcohol can increase inflammation and also interact poorly with your medications.
Dealing With Pain? Talk to 911 Pain Management
If you’re dealing with pain, you should consider visiting a pain management clinic in McAllen.
Our McAllen pain doctors at 911 Pain Management can help you with comprehensive evaluations and care plans. We can help you find the right options to bring relief to that annoying neck pain or the lower back pain you can’t seem to shake.
Schedule your appointment to get the process started!
