Degenerative disc disease is an oppressive condition that can have intense impacts on one’s ability to perform day-to-day tasks, as well as one’s general sense of well-being. However, it is a common condition that comes paired with aging. Below we have our guide to nutrition for degenerative disc disease.
There are many different steps one can take in order to try to combat the progression of this disease. One that is often overlooked is the fact that proper nutrition can help an individual suffering from this condition immensely.
Guide to Nutrition for Degenerative Disc Disease
If you or a loved one are suffering from this condition, take a look at this guide to how nutrition can help you cope with this condition.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative Disc Disease is a condition where the discs of tissue that separate one’s vertebrae in the spine are slowly denigrating and dissolving. This is a natural process of aging, and the discs don’t perform their function of absorbing shock and pressure for the rest of the spine. This can lead to a variety of health and wellness issues. Nutrition can play an important part in helping to prevent this process from exacerbating too much. Many of the tips are considered just parts of good daily nutrition.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens have the potential to influence one’s health for the better across the board. They are considered to be one of the pillars of one’s diet despite their general health situation. Vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin K can help protect the body from inflammation in conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. This includes the inflammation that contributes to Degenerative Disc Disease. Some of the following are considered beneficial examples:
- Kale
- Spinach
- Chard
- Cabbage
Whole Grains
Grains are considered a key source of vitamins and minerals and an essential source of fiber. There is a hefty amount of evidence that the consumption of Whole Grains can lower the risk of many deadly and obstructive diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and more. Some of the following are to be sought out:
- Quinoa
- Whole grain bread
- Oats
Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is another no-brainer when considering the benefits of nutrition. There are many different types of healthy fruit that are healthy and beneficial for combating chronic disease conditions. Some examples of the fruits that are commonly consumed for this purpose include the following:
- Grapefruit
- Pomegranate
- Blueberries
- Oranges
- Apples
All of these fruits can help your body maintain health and resilience in the face of challenges.
Healthy Fats
There are many different types of fat, and some are more beneficial to the body than others. Finding the right source of healthy fats can be somewhat challenging. However, there are ultimately many different types of foods that are available. Some of the following are considered beneficial sources of fat:
- Fish oils from fish like mackerel and salmon
- Nuts
- Healthy cooking oil, such as olive oil
- Yogurt
These types of fat have been demonstrated to protect the body from many different conditions, including heart attack and stroke. In general, they are considered to be highly beneficial for many different body and brain functions.
Healthy Proteins
Healthy proteins join with healthy fats, offering individuals a powerful foundation for protecting themselves against the progression of degenerative disease. This type of protein offers many different health benefits, including helping to build muscle and regulate blood sugar. The consumption of healthy proteins can, in turn, help to protect against unhealthy sugar cravings that can cause one to eat unhealthy, sugary treats. Some of the following foods are considered sources of healthy proteins:
- Turkey
- Chicken Breast
- Fish
- Lean meat
- Legumes
Nutrition and Your Spine
It has been noted in numerous credible studies that nutrition has the potential to help the body recover and maintain resilience in the face of aging conditions such as Degenerative Disc Disease. In addition, if you have a surgery scheduled for your spine, utilizing proper nutrition has the potential to significantly influence the outcomes of your procedure. All in all, following the guidelines of healthy nutrition can help an individual live a stronger and more realized existence that isn’t as vulnerable to the effects of disease. In general, this can only help an individual combat the effects of chronic issues like Degenerative Disc Disease.
The Best Spine Surgeon in Southern California
Dr. Yashar is one of the most trusted spine surgeons in Southern California. If you’re interested in receiving a consultation about your own Degenerative Disc Disease, then contact Dr. Yashar today in order to get the ball rolling on recuperating some of your health and wellness.
