Chiropractic care is all about minor corrections that support and strengthen the body’s natural processes. One of the most important and most basic functions of the human body is digestion. The food we eat is transformed into fuel that powers everything from the nervous system to the musculoskeletal system. If you’ve heard the phrase “You are what you eat,” then you understand just how influential your diet is on your overall health.
Chiropractic is more than just office visits and spinal adjustments. If you want to see results, look no further than the food that you eat. How is it affecting your body? How is it helping (or hindering) your chiropractic progress? Let’s take a closer look at the surprisingly intricate relationship between your diet and your spinal health.
First, a poor diet can lead to excess weight. This occurs when a person is regularly eating more calories than they are burning through daily activities and exercise. Weight gain can lead to significant stress on the spine. Your body is responsible for propelling you forward, and every extra pound may only cause further strain on your joints. Pursue healthy weight loss as a way to supplement the benefits of chiropractic care.
Second, consider the effects of the food and drink you put in your body. Items such as red meat, white flour, fried foods, and sugary beverages are considered highly inflammatory. Prolonged systemic inflammation can lead to much more serious chronic conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. On the other hand, some foods have natural anti-inflammatory properties. An anti-inflammatory diet includes items high in vitamin C (fruits and vegetables), omega-3 fatty acids (fish and canola oil), and polyphenols (dark chocolate and tea).
Finally, your body should be provided every opportunity to fire on all cylinders. Chiropractic care does an excellent job of supporting the healing process, and your diet can actually accelerate the timeline even more. Moreover, if you’re feeling sluggish, tired, or unable to focus, this may be an indicator that your body is not working at maximum capacity. Consider changing your diet to reflect your goals of a healthy mind and body. Eat foods rich in vitamins, including leafy greens, whole grains, eggs, berries, and nuts and seeds.
Want to learn more about the effects of your diet on your body? We encourage you to ask your local chiropractor, or schedule a consultation with us here at Wirth Chiropractic. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started!
