A healthy diet may lessen chronic pain, according to an Australian study.
Researchers from the University of South Australia discovered a direct correlation between increased intake of foods aligned with the Australian Dietary Guidelines and reduced body pain, especially in women, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
“It’s widely recognised that a balanced diet benefits one’s health and well-being. However, realising that minor dietary changes could alleviate chronic pain could profoundly impact lives,” stated Sue Ward, a co-author of the research.
Past studies have indicated that more than 30 per cent of individuals worldwide experience chronic pain, with women and those who are overweight or obese being more susceptible.
The recent study revealed that a higher intake of essential foods—such as vegetables, fruits, grains, lean meats, and dairy alternatives—can alleviate chronic pain, regardless of an individual’s weight.
“Understanding that dietary choices and the overall quality of one’s nutrition not only enhance health but also alleviate pain is incredibly important,” Ward remarked.
The research indicated that the impact of healthy diets on reducing chronic pain was more significant for women than for men.
Ward mentioned that it could be that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics of these core food groups contribute to pain reduction, though the team cannot definitively determine if a poor diet leads to increased pain or if pain causes a deterioration in diet quality.
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