Musculoskeletal pain is common, both acute and chronic. The pain can interfere with you living your best life and may hinder your ability to go to work and fulfill your responsibilities. Whilst not all pain is preventable, some of it is through lifestyle changes, including diet changes. Diet can help your musculoskeletal system in other ways as well. At Enlighten Chiropractic, our chiropractic in Lakeville, MN, has a few diet tips to help.
Fiber
Fiber is indigestible and well known for regulating your digestive system as well as improving your heart health. However, studies have shown a link between fiber and muscle gain. Although you don’t want to forgo protein when trying to improve your strength, it helps to add fiber to your diet to improve the muscle-building process.
Additionally, fiber can help you feel full longer, which can reduce how much you eat. As a result, routinely eating fiber could aid in weight loss or weight management in general.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C classifies as an antioxidant, meaning it helps in the battle against free radical damage — an issue known to increase your risk of heart disease and certain cancers. It’s also known to kickstart your immune system, among other benefits. While our chiropractor in Lakeville, MN, recognizes the benefits of vitamin C on various parts of your body, we stress how vital it is to consume enough vitamin C daily to improve the health of your musculoskeletal system.
For instance, this vitamin is necessary for forming collagen, and this particular protein is needed for the health of your muscles, cartilage, and bones. Your body requires it to absorb iron, a mineral that helps maintain your bones.
Keep in mind that scurvy stems from a vitamin C deficiency and can lead to musculoskeletal pain, and you can prevent it by ensuring your body receives adequate vitamin C.
Vitamin D
First and foremost, you must obtain enough vitamin D daily for strong bones. Some studies have noted that vitamin D supplementation can enhance your muscle strength. Ultimately, when you receive enough vitamin D, you can prevent some injuries or at least reduce the severity.
By consuming vitamin D regularly, you can ward off musculoskeletal pain, including neck pain. It may also minimize muscle spasms and weakness.
Magenium
When you get adequate magnesium in your diet, you help build and maintain strong bones, which are less prone to injury.
A diet rich in magnesium may also help your muscles since this mineral is a natural calcium blocker. For that reason, it helps your muscles relax and contract. Unfortunately, if you don’t receive enough of this mineral, you could experience muscle cramps or spasms for this reason.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Although omega-3 fatty acids aren’t for everyone, like those on a blood thinner, those who are looking to improve their musculoskeletal health, thus their popularity with bodybuilders. One benefit is that they can reduce your muscle fatigue and soreness. These symptoms tend to come from cellular inflammation, which omega-3s can reduce.
Plus, omega-3 fatty acids enhance your blood circulation, resulting in an increased amount of nutrients and oxygen flowing to your muscles. This can help with the healing process after an injury or can allow you to increase your training sessions and their frequency. You can also improve your muscle recovery and decrease your joint pain.
Tryptophan
Tryptophan classifies as an essential amino acid. Ideally, you want to consume this through either the food you eat, such as turkey, or take a supplement. It plays a role in building and maintaining your muscles and neurotransmitters.
This amino acid also aids in reducing inflammation throughout your body, which can contribute to health problems and pain.
Eating a healthy diet rich in certain minerals and vitamins optimizes your overall health. Particularly, certain nutrients benefit your musculoskeletal health. Some reduce your pain, while others assist in the muscle-building process. At Enlighten Chiropractic, serving Lakeville, MN, and the nearby region, we stress the importance of healthy eating habits on overall health and musculoskeletal health. We also urge individuals to visit our office to see the difference we can make.
Book an appointment with Enlighten Chiropractic, serving Lakeville, MN, and the surrounding region, by calling 952-232-1935 or using our form.