Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It occurs when the muscles around the shoulder get inflamed and irritated, leading to pain, stiffness, and discomfort. While physiotherapy and chiropractic care help relieve the symptoms, avoiding certain foods can also help prevent flare-ups and promote healing. In this blog post, we discuss the foods you should avoid when suffering from rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Processed Foods: Processed foods are high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats that can lead to inflammation in the body. Eating foods like fast food, packaged snacks, and frozen dinners can worsen rotator cuff tendinopathy symptoms. If you can’t avoid processed foods altogether, try to limit your intake and opt for healthier snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds.
High-Fat Foods: High-fat foods like fried foods, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products contribute to inflammation in the body. Reducing these items in your diet and opting for lean sources of protein like chicken breast, fish, and beans can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Nightshade Vegetables: Vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers are known to cause inflammation in the body and worsen rotator cuff tendinopathy symptoms. Barring their intake or limiting their intake may help alleviate inflammation. Instead, try incorporating other anti-inflammatory vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Alcohol: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes dehydration, which can worsen inflammation and pain in the body. Drinking alcohol can also interfere with sleep patterns, making it harder for your body to heal. Try to limit or avoid alcohol altogether when experiencing rotator cuff tendinopathy symptoms.
Aspartame: Aspartame is an artificial sweetener commonly found in diet soda and other low-calorie products. It has been linked to high levels of inflammation in the body and may aggravate rotator cuff tendinopathy symptoms. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead.
Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a painful and uncomfortable condition that can be managed with proper nutrition. Avoiding processed and high-fat foods, nightshade vegetables, alcohol, and aspartame can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Incorporating healthy foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can also help alleviate symptoms of rotator cuff tendinopathy. Consult with your registered dietitian or naturopathic doctor to tailor your diet to your specific needs. Always aim to have a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients – this will go a long way for your overall health.
