Inflammatory and Anti-inflammatory foods
We now know that some food groups are ‘pro-inflammatory’ (i.e., they increase inflammation in the body) and that others have an anti-inflammatory effect. This can have an impact on our pain and mental health.
As a rule, processed, high-sugar, simple carbohydrates (such as white bread, white pasta, white rice) foods may make inflammation worse (think beige, convenience foods!).
Conversely, whole foods like vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes (beans and peas), wholegrains, complex carbohydrates (brown bread, brown/wild rice) and oily fish are helpful anti-inflammatory foods.
A diet, which is richer in these more nutritious, whole, foods could be helpful in the management of persistent pain and is fast becoming a more important part of pain management programmes.