Shoulder pain is a common complaint, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or occupation. It is often caused by trauma, overuse, or medical conditions such as arthritis or rotator cuff tear. While there are many treatments available for shoulder pain, diet can also play a significant role in managing it. The foods you consume can either help or worsen your shoulder pain. In this blog post, we will discuss the foods you should avoid with shoulder pain and why.
Processed Foods
Processed foods should be avoided if you have shoulder pain. They contain refined sugars, trans fats, and empty calories, which can promote inflammation and contribute to weight gain- a significant risk factor for shoulder pain. Moreover, processed foods are often high in sodium, which can lead to water retention and increase blood pressure. Common examples of processed foods include fast food, sugary drinks, packaged snacks, and frozen meals.
High-Fat Dairy Products
While consuming dairy products in moderation can be beneficial for your bones and muscles, high-fat dairy products such as cheese, cream, and butter can exacerbate shoulder pain. High-fat dairy products contain saturated fats and arachidonic acid- a pro-inflammatory compound that can make pain worse. If you cannot eliminate dairy altogether, try switching to low-fat alternatives such as skim milk or yoghurt.
Nightshade Vegetables
Nightshade vegetables are part of the Solanaceae family and include tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, and potatoes. They are nutritious and often recommended for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they contain a compound called solanine, which can trigger inflammation and pain in some people, especially those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. If you experience shoulder pain after consuming nightshade vegetables, try eliminating them from your diet and see if the pain subsides.
Red Meat
Red meat, especially processed red meat, should be avoided if you have shoulder pain. Red meat contains saturated fats, which can promote inflammation and lead to weight gain. Moreover, processed meats such as bacon, sausages, and deli meats contain additives such as sodium nitrite and sulfites, which can trigger allergic reactions and induce pain. If you can’t eliminate red meat altogether, choose lean cuts and avoid processed varieties.
Alcohol
Alcohol should be avoided if you have shoulder pain. Alcohol is a depressant that can interfere with sleep quality and increase inflammation levels, making pain worse. Moreover, alcohol is often consumed with sugary mixers or snacks, which can contribute to weight gain and inflammation. If you can’t eliminate alcohol altogether, try to limit your consumption to one drink per day and avoid mixing it with sugary additives.
Shoulder pain can have a significant impact on your quality of life, but lifestyle changes such as diet modifications can alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Processed foods, high-fat dairy products, nightshade vegetables, red meat, and alcohol are some of the foods you should avoid with shoulder pain. Instead, focus on consuming a balanced diet for shoulder pain rich in anti-inflammatory foods, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Consult with a registered dietitian, naturopathic doctor, physiotherapist, or chiropractor to develop a personalized diet plan that suits your needs and promotes optimal health.
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 Naturopathic Doctor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
