Nutrition for Chronic Pain
A balanced and nutritious diet can have a significant impact on pain reduction. Nutrition for chronic pain gives us the energy to complete everyday tasks and ensures our bodies perform at an optimum level. Without proper nutrition, we can’t function as well, either physically or mentally.
How Chronic Pain Impacts Nutritional Needs
“The foods you eat (and don’t) can determine how well your body fights painful inflammation” – Harvard Health Publishing.
Highly processed foods, as well as those that are rich in salt, sugar and saturated fats, are shown to place extreme stress on the body as well as enhancing the effects of inflammation. By making appropriate alterations to the diet, and prioritising foods that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, we can minimise the effects of these, and in turn, reduce the severity of pain experienced.
Follow a Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet is based on the traditional cuisine of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. This type of diet features more fish, less meat and it’s rich in plants and healthy oils.
Use Your Hand for Portion Control
A serving of carbs, such as cooked pasta or potatoes should be no bigger than your closed fist. The same applies to fruit. Your protein component, of meat, fish, tofu or poultry, should be around the size of your palm. Use your thumb to measure high-fat foods, such as cheese.
Allow Yourself Some Yummy Treats!
A diet that’s too restrictive can be so hard to sustain and it’s unnecessary. It’s far more sensible to maintain the 80/20 principle. That means eating and drinking healthy foods and drinks 80 percent of the time. Then allow yourself some treats for the other 20 percent. This means you don’t have to feel deprived and you can still be healthy.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
While some reports suggest there are health benefits to savouring the odd glass of wine, it is a good idea to be aware of how much you drink and stay within the guidelines. See Drink Aware for guidance on units for each drink.
Stay Well Hydrated
Staying well hydrated is particularly important during this time, as hydration supports all of our body functions. When we are well hydrated, our mood performance and concentration all improve.
Follow the ‘Healthy Eating Plate’ Guide
The Healthy Eating Plate is based on scientific evidence that shows a plant-based diet lowers the risk of weight gain and chronic disease. It portions off your dinner plate, telling you which foods should go where and in what quantity.
Easing Chronic Pain with Nutritional Guidance
The Role of a Nutrition Coach
Chronic pain, a persistent and debilitating condition, can significantly impact the quality of life. While conventional medical treatments remain crucial, incorporating nutritional counseling into pain management strategies has emerged as a promising approach. A nutrition coach serves as a valuable guide, providing personalised support and education to help individuals with chronic pain achieve their wellness goals.
Key Advantages of Nutrition for Chronic Pain
A nutrition for chronic pain ally provides tailored guidance to help individuals make informed food choices and develop sustainable dietary habits.
Custom-made Nutrition Plans
Our nutricion coaches for chronic pain create customised plans that consider individual needs, preferences, and medical conditions.
Symptom Management
They can identify and address food sensitivities or allergies that may exacerbate pain symptoms.
Nutritional Education
They provide comprehensive education on the connection between nutrition and chronic pain, empowering individuals to make informed food choices.
Overall Health Improvement
Nutrition coaching promotes overall health and well-being, contributing to improved energy levels, sleep quality, and mood.
Ongoing Support
Our nutrition coaches provide ongoing guidance and support to help individuals maintain healthy eating habits and adapt life to manage their pain effectively.
Blending Nutrition and Chronic Pain Management
By addressing nutritional factors that influence pain and overall well-being, individuals can take proactive steps towards improving their quality of life and managing chronic pain effectively.
Understanding Nutrition and Chronic Pain
In the context of chronic pain, a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can contribute to pain reduction, improved energy levels, and enhanced mood.
