Sustaining a dislocation can be a painful and debilitating injury. Whether it’s a shoulder, knee, or hip dislocation, the road to recovery can be long and challenging. Registered dietitians and naturopathic doctors often get asked by our clients about what foods to avoid during the recovery period. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing some of the foods you should avoid with a dislocation.
Sugar
Sugar is one of the most notorious culprits when it comes to inflammation. Unfortunately, sugary foods and drinks can also be some of the most tempting foods to consume during recovery. Candy, soda, and baked goods are all high in sugar and should be avoided during recovery. If you’re craving something sweet, try eating fruits or yogurt instead.
Alcohol
Alcohol is not only a depressant but can also slow down the healing process. This is because alcohol dehydrates the body, which can lead to inflammation and hinder the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages during the recovery period and focus on drinking plenty of water instead.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sodium, which can lead to water retention, swelling, and inflammation. It is best to reduce your intake of processed foods that are high in sodium for these reasons. Instead, opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains, which can help with the healing process.
Saturated and Trans Fats
Trans fats and saturated fats can increase inflammation and make the healing process longer. Foods high in saturated and trans fats include fried foods, fatty meats, and cheese. Instead, try eating healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil, which can help reduce inflammation and aid in the healing process.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and can interfere with your sleep, which is crucial for recovery. It can also increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can exacerbate injuries like dislocations. It’s important to be careful with caffeine and limit your intake during the recovery period. Try drinking herbal tea or water instead.
Recovering from a dislocation can be a challenging and stressful process, but avoiding certain foods can help make the process smoother. Physiotherapists and chiropractors aid in the manual recovery of dislocation while dietitians and naturopaths advise clients to avoid sugary foods, alcohol, processed foods, saturated and trans fats, and caffeine during the recovery period. Instead, focus on eating whole foods that are nutrient-dense and can help reduce inflammation and aid in the healing process. If you have any questions about your recovery diet, be sure to consult with a registered dietitian or naturopathic doctor.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Bhavin Mistry, BASc, MAN, RD or another Kitchener dietitian at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
