Living with Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a challenge in itself. The condition occurs when abnormal growth along the hip joint causes bones to rub together instead of gliding smoothly. Inflammation and other symptoms can be reduced through physiotherapy, chiropractic care and exercise, but diet also plays a vital role in managing the condition. A dietitian or naturopathic doctor will be able to provide a meal plan to quicken your recovery. In this blog, we will discuss foods that should be avoided if you suffer from FAI.
Processed Foods
Foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fats should be avoided as they stimulate inflammation in the body. This includes processed foods such as chips, fast food, processed meats, and snacks like candy, crackers, and cookies. These foods lack the essential nutrients required to detect inflammation in the body. It’s crucial to read labels for added sugars, unhealthy fats, and high sodium content.
Dairy Products
FAI patients should avoid dairy products like cheese, butter, milk, sour cream, and other high-fat dairy products. These products contain a protein called casein that can trigger an inflammatory response in some individuals. Research found that people with inflammatory joint conditions had fewer symptoms after removing dairy from their diet.
Nightshade Vegetables
Nightshade vegetables may cause inflammation in some people. Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes are common food items that contain solanine, which is said to irritate the lining of the gut and trigger inflammation throughout the body. Some individuals may have adverse reactions to nightshade vegetables resulting in joint inflammation.
Gluten
Gluten can trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the hip joint. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley; grains such as pastas, cereals, bread, and pastries, among others, should be avoided. A gluten-free diet could benefit a person with FAI in reducing inflammation and improving mobility.
High Omega 6 Foods
FAI patients should also avoid foods that are high in omega-6 fatty acids because they are pro-inflammatory. These include oils such as corn, sunflower, and safflower, as well as grains, poultry, and eggs. Studies suggest that people eating a diet high in omega-6 fatty acids have higher levels of inflammation than those with low omega-6 diets.
In managing FAI, it’s crucial to create a diet that reduces inflammation within your body. Avoiding certain foods can help create a long-lasting positive effect. Eliminating processed foods, high-fat dairy products, nightshade vegetables, gluten, and high omega-6 foods can help to support pain management. Eating healthy foods helps to reduce inflammation, promote weight loss, and maintain optimum health. It is always advisable to consult a registered dietitian or naturopath before making any significant dietary changes, and a proper diet plan must be tailored for your individual needs.
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!
