Neck strain is a common problem that can cause discomfort and pain. Whether you’ve been involved in a car accident or simply slept in an awkward position neck strain can be incredibly disruptive to your daily life. When it comes to managing neck strain most people focus on physiotherapy or chiropractic care. However, did you know that your diet can also play a huge role in your recovery? In this blog post, we’ll explore the foods you should avoid if you’re dealing with neck strain as well as some alternative options that can help.
High-sugar foods:
Sugar is one of the most inflammatory foods you can consume and it can be particularly problematic when you’re dealing with neck strain. High-sugar foods include things like candy, soda and processed snacks. When you eat too much sugar, your body’s inflammatory response is heightened, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks, try to focus on foods that are low in sugar but high in nutrients, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Processed foods:
Processed foods are another type of food that can be harmful if you’re dealing with neck strain. These foods are often high in salt, preservatives, and other additives that can contribute to inflammation. In addition, they’re usually low in nutrients, which means they don’t provide your body with the building blocks it needs for healing. Rather than relying on processed foods, try to stick with whole foods for neck strains that are fresh and nutrient-dense.
Alcohol:
While it’s okay to drink alcohol in moderation, it’s important to keep in mind that it can be harmful if you’re dealing with neck strain. Alcohol can interfere with sleep quality, which can be a big problem if you’re trying to recover from an injury. Additionally, alcohol can increase inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate your neck pain. If you are going to drink, try to limit your intake and choose lower-alcohol options like beer or wine.
Caffeine:
Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep and increase muscle tension, which can be problematic when you’re dealing with neck strain. In addition, caffeine can cause dehydration, which can make it harder for your body to heal from neck strains. If you’re a coffee fan, try to limit your intake and stick with decaf or herbal teas instead.
Dairy:
While dairy products like milk and cheese are an important source of calcium, they can also be problematic if you’re dealing with neck strain. Dairy products are known to increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort. Instead of relying on dairy for your calcium needs, try getting your calcium from other sources like leafy greens, almonds, and fortified products.
When you’re dealing with neck strain, it can be helpful to focus on not just physiotherapy or chiropractic care, but also your diet. By avoiding high-sugar and processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, and dairy, you can reduce inflammation in your body and promote healing. Incorporate nutrient-dense, whole foods into your diet, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest to improve your chances of recovering from neck strain quickly and efficiently. Working with a skilled dietitian and naturopathic doctor at CARESPACE can help create an individualized meal plan that allows for optimal healing, while still enjoying your food.
