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Sciatica is pain caused by damage to the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs from the lower back to both your legs. This condition most commonly occurs when a herniated disc or bone spur presses the sciatic nerve. This contributes to inflammation and results in pain in the lower back and leg pain. Mild sciatica rarely requires treatment and goes away on its own. But several things can help you speed up the recovery process and improve your well-being.
One of the ways to manage the inflammation of the sciatic nerve and relieve pain is a diet. Eating the right diet can help you reduce sciatica pain and inflammation. Keep reading to discover 9 foods that can help you manage sciatica back pain.
Celery is a vegetable high in antioxidants and vitamins that can help your body fight inflammation. It contains two essential anti-inflammatory antioxidants called apigenin and luteolin. Both these antioxidants can be used to treat different inflammatory conditions and relieve sciatica. Including celery in your diet is a great way to improve your sense of well-being.
Grapes are filled with antioxidant anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Besides, grapes contain chemical resveratrol. This is a plant chemical that protects the body against damage that can aggravate inflammation and worsen sciatica pain.
Pineapple is a great anti-inflammatory food. It contains an ingredient called bromelain. This is an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory and health-boosting effect. Regular intake of bromelain relieves the inflammation of the sciatic nerve, swelling in the affected area, pain, and speeds up tissue repair. The enzymes found in the pineapple can also be helpful to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Broccoli belongs to the cruciferous family of vegetables (Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage). A major component of broccoli is sulforaphane. This chemical is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Moreover, broccoli is low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are crucial for your health.
Berries are one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants and vitamins that can help you fight inflammation and relieve sciatica. The most beneficial berries include blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries. Most of these berries contain an antioxidant called anthocyanins. It relieves inflammation and helps produce chemicals that ensure the proper work of the immune system.
Just like many leafy greens, parsley contains a high dose of chemicals known as flavonoids. Flavonoids are antioxidants that have a lot of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory. Another antioxidant found in parsley is apigenin. It can help reduce even severe inflammation caused by health conditions like lupus and arthritis.
Onion is a rich source of the chemical quercetin. This is a plant-based flavonoid that has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Consuming onions on a regular basis helps reduce the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol. The combination of these health benefits makes onions a super healthy vegetable that can help speed up recovery from sciatica.
Green tea is one of the healthiest beverages that can help you fight inflammation. It contains a substance known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). This chemical inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby managing inflammation. Besides, green tea has high doses of caffeine, which makes it a great substitute for your morning coffee. By replacing coffee with green tea, you can improve overall body inflammation and relieve sciatica pain.
Fatty fish is a rich source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. They are known to reduce inflammation, thereby can help you manage sciatica back pain. The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies.