Diet Quality: A Potential Ally in Managing Chronic Pain

Recent discussions among healthcare professionals highlight the significant role diet quality plays in managing chronic pain. A growing body of evidence suggests that a healthier diet can potentially alleviate pain, while a lower-quality diet exacerbates inflammation and oxidative stress.

Chronic pain affects millions, and studies indicate that dietary choices are linked to pain management. The standard American diet, characterized by high levels of refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and added sugars, tends to worsen pain. This diet is associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to prolonged discomfort.

Thomas M. Holland, MD, MS, a physician-scientist and assistant professor at the RUSH Institute for Healthy Aging, emphasized the connection between diet quality and chronic pain. Although he was not involved in the latest study on this topic, he provided insights into how dietary habits influence pain levels. "To contrast this, a lower-quality diet, like a standard American diet—high in refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and added sugars—can substantially increase inflammation and oxidative stress, which will worsen pain and potentially make it last longer," he stated.

Dr. Holland further explained that adopting a higher-quality diet could provide relief for those suffering from chronic pain. "A higher-quality diet can reduce chronic pain by minimizing inflammation and oxidative stress through nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants," he said. He also highlighted that "generally, adopting an overall healthy lifestyle will amplify the benefits of a nutritious diet in managing chronic pain."

Kiran Campbell, RDN, a registered dietitian and owner of Kiran Campbell Nutrition, echoed these sentiments. She pointed out that focusing on dietary patterns that modulate inflammation could be vital in pain management. "Focusing on dietary patterns and constituents that modulate inflammation and oxidative stress may be crucial to alleviating chronic pain," Campbell noted.

The implications of these findings are significant for individuals dealing with chronic pain. By shifting towards a more nutritious diet, they may find relief from their symptoms. The emphasis on high-quality food choices presents an actionable step for those looking to improve their quality of life.