Exercise, Diet, and Back Pain: How a Healthier Lifestyle Makes All the Difference

During this time of year, people take a hard look at their overall health and tend to focus on getting better about diet and exercise. But do you really see the value in making these changes? Are you motivated to alter your lifestyle to be more active and healthy? Well, did you know that exercise can also help you overcome back and other pain? Check out this information from your chiropractor that can give you a boost in the right direction.

How Exercise and Diet Impact Your Well-Being

Research has been well documented and has shown repeatedly that diet and exercise are beneficial for your health. Here are just some of the ways that these habits can improve your quality of life.

Heart Health

Your heart is one of the most active muscles, and it’s important to give it a good workout on a regular basis. Exercises where your heart rate is elevated, also called cardio, keep the heart strong and can help improve your circulation. Likewise, you need to eat foods that help your veins and arteries remain clear of lipids, or fat cells. These foods include spinach, kale, berries, whole grains, and fish oil. By eating heart-healthy foods and implementing cardio workouts into your routine, you can help your heart function at its best.

Metabolism

Diet and exercise play a pivotal role in your metabolism. A sedentary lifestyle with poor nutrition slows down your body’s natural processing, making weight loss difficult. You need to stay active and consume more vegetables, protein, and healthy fats to reignite your body’s calorie burning.

Mood and Mental Health

When you take the time to exercise and eat healthy foods, your brain definitely benefits. Exercise causes the release of endorphins, which help you feel content and happy. As a result, you can give yourself a significant boost in mood by doing something as simple as going on a walk. In addition, many health experts say that what you eat can directly impact your mental health. In fact, one study found that those who eat more fruits and vegetables tend to have higher feelings of well-being.

How Exercise and Diet Impact Your Back Pain

Sometimes, back pain is the direct result of unhealthy habits. From bad posture at your computer desk to excess weight and weak muscles, there are plenty of ways that a sedentary lifestyle contributes to discomfort. But proper exercise can improve your pain levels! Also, when you have a healthy diet, your body has the nutrients it needs to heal from an injury or condition.

Although it’s true that some instances of back pain are caused by an injury from working out, the good news is that there are plenty of low-impact exercises, such as swimming or elliptical work, and stretches to avoid injury. Plus, you can also visit a chiropractor to address back, neck, or knee pain.

Whether you’re just starting out on your wellness journey or you’ve encountered a roadblock, your chiropractor can help you stay on track with your diet and exercise, as well as relieve your back pain.

About the Author

At Wills Chiropractic, Dr. Chad Wills has been providing pain-relieving treatment for more than 20 years. He is a proud member of the Florida Chiropractic Association and is certified in Chiropractic Biophysics. In fact, he is one of only two to have this distinction in the Collier and Lee County. If you have questions about the benefits of diet and exercise, you can contact Dr. Wills by calling 239-331-6060 or clicking here.