Costochondritis is a condition more prevalent than you might think, especially among clients who suffer from fibromyalgia, intense workouts, or other factors. When you develop Costochondritis, it causes inflammation in the cartilage that connects your rib to your breastbone. And, although it typically resolves on its own, staying away from certain foods high in acidity, cholesterol, or processed elements can help alleviate pain and discomfort. In this blog post, we share the seven top foods to avoid with Costochondritis, providing you with a set of helpful tips and recommendations that can boost your feeling of well-being.
Acidic Foods
If you have Costochondritis, acidic foods such as tomatoes, orange and grapefruit juice, and tomato sauce must be avoided. These foods contain substances that your stomach has to work harder to digest, triggering heartburn and acid reflux. By eliminating these delicacies from your diet, you allow your stomach to function better, reducing the number of acid reflux episodes you potentially face.
Fried Foods
One of the significant triggers for inflammation is fried food. Even so, clients suffering from Costochondritis must pay attention to the kind of oils used in the preparation of all their dishes. Trans fats are the worst to ensure harmful ingredients are under control. Cut back on the deep-fried chicken, onion rings, or anything else that isn’t air-fried or grilled. Also, avoid foods such as butter and margarine that are high in unhealthy fats.
Dairy
Although dairy is quite tasty, it’s one of the foods you must cut out with Costochondritis. Inflammation of the ribs mostly causes pain and discomfort, and dairy contributes to the growth of inflammation. Cheese, milk, and butter are top foods to avoid when treating Costochondritis. Opt for coconut or almond milk and non-dairy cheeses, which are more beneficial for your health.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sodium and other additives that can be detrimental to your health. Costochondritis clients can feel a bit of respite when sticking to whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Crackers, cookies, and other processed snack foods, including breakfast cereals, are all high on the list of edibles to avoid.
Alcohol
When consuming alcohol, the liver begins to work overtime to break it down. It’s too much for the liver to handle, causing it to produce substances that result in inflammation and, subsequently, causing pain in those with Costochondritis. Best to limit your alcohol intake or to avoid it altogether to avoid triggering an inflammation episode.
Costochondritis can be uncomfortable and painful; however, what you consume can make a significant difference when it comes to alleviating your symptoms. Cut back on dairy, acidic, and fried foods, along with processed foods and alcohol, focusing on a diet high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like chicken and fish, and healthy fats such as nuts or olive oil. Seeking help from physiotherapy or a chiropractor can facilitate healing and reduce inflammation manually, while a registered dietitian or naturopathic doctor can help you choose the right foods to quicken your recovery period. With these tips, you can reduce pain, and improve your ability to function throughout the day.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopath at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
