The health of one's spine reflects the overall health of the body, and a healthy diet plays a role in moderating the low back pain of degenerative disc disease. Specifically, intervertebral discs benefit from:
- Hydration
- Oxygenation
In This Article:
- Living with Degenerative Disc Disease
- How to Lessen Pain from a Degenerated Disc
- Controlling Degenerative Disc Disease Pain: Three Things You Can Do
- Step Two of DDD Management: Reduce Lower Back Stress
- Step Three of DDD Management: Improve Nutrition
- Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease Video
- Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease Video
Patients can achieve both hydration and oxygenation with small changes, such as
- Hydration can be improved by sipping water throughout the day, especially during and after exercise, as well as eliminating or reducing use of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, some teas, and soda.
- Alcohol use should be minimized. Alcohol not only decreases hydration, it is a depressant. Using alcohol to self-medicate and numb pain can start a cycle of unhealthy actions, interfering with everything from sleep quality, the ability to make healthy food choices, and the motivation to exercise.
- Smoking – or any nicotine intake - should be eliminated, because it interferes with nutrition for the spinal discs by preventing the good oxygen flow needed to keep them healthy.
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Although the term degenerative disc disease sounds fearsome, for most people the low back pain and other symptoms from lumbar degenerative disc disease can be managed quite effectively with self-care.
By making a concerted effort at managing the pain, most patients will find that they can keep the pain to a tolerable level and continue to enjoy their favorite activities without having to undergo major surgery.
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