Did you know there is a nutrition protocol just for people with scoliosis? It’s called Your Scoliosis Treatment Cookbook and presents a unique perspective on addressing the dietary needs of scoliosis patients that I haven’t come across anywhere else.
Scoliosis is a multifactorial condition. For this reason, living with scoliosis requires a treatment plan that is multifaceted. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting spinal health and overall body health. While nutrition alone cannot cure scoliosis per se, adopting a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can optimize your body’s ability to manage the condition, reduce inflammation and support healthy bone and muscle development.
In this post, we will explore the connection between nutrition and scoliosis, as well as key dietary considerations for individuals with scoliosis.
Does nutrition affect scoliosis?
Adequate nutrition is essential for bone strength, muscle development, and overall growth. By providing the body with the necessary nutrients, you can support optimal bone density, maintain muscle strength, and promote overall spinal health.
Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet is incredibly important for individuals with scoliosis.
Here are key nutrients that can support spinal health that scoliosis patients should take into consideration:
Calcium
Essential for bone health, calcium and vitamin D help maintain strong bones and support proper skeletal development. Leafy greens are by far my favorite and preferred source of calcium. For scoli patients with dairy sensitivity or intolerance, I discourage associating calcium with dairy as it can be an inflammatory food group and be problematic for some.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in fatty fish (like salmon and small fish), flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Magnesium
This mineral aids in muscle relaxation and plays a role in bone health. Include foods like dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and legumes in your diet to ensure adequate magnesium intake. Celery juice is another efficient source of magnesium. Magnesium can support good sleep. Quality sleep is critical for scoli patients. Consider a magnesium supplement to ensure you are getting adequate amounts in addition to whole food sources.
Vitamin C
Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin C supports collagen formation and can aid in tissue repair. Include citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, broccoli and bone broth in your meals. I personally like adding a little lime to my water either first thing in the morning or around 8pm in the evening.
Focusing on colorful, natural, whole foods is a delicious way to give your body what it needs to reduce inflammation and body puffiness.
What foods should be avoided with scoliosis?
While there are no specific foods that directly cause or cure scoliosis, it is advisable to limit or temporarily avoid certain foods that may contribute to inflammation or hinder bone health.
Consider minimizing or avoiding the following:
Processed Foods
Highly processed foods often lack essential nutrients and may contain additives that can promote inflammation in the body. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods as much as possible.
Sugary Drinks
Over consumption of sugary beverages can prevent us from consuming enough healthy hydrating fluids. Prioritize natural spring water, herbal tea, and natural electrolyte drinks like coconut water to ensure proper intake of minerals for optimal hydration.
Trans Fats
Foods high in trans fats, such as fried and processed snacks, can increase inflammation and negatively impact overall health. Opt for healthier fats like olive oil, avocados, and nuts in moderation.
Conventional Produce
I opt for organic produce as much as I can to reduce extra exposure to chemicals. When it comes to healing, it’s in our best interest to reduce exposure to things that can be taxing on our system. And remember to still clean organic food thoroughly as chemicals may still be present.
Gluten and Dairy
Gluten and dairy can not only be inflammatory, they can be a common food sensitivity that can go unnoticed. I recommend working with a nutritionist or dietician who understands food sensitivities to identify if you have a sensitivity to gluten and dairy. And on the path towards healing, consider giving your body a break from gluten and dairy for a week and see how you feel.
I am a believer in the healing power of food. I am also aware of the emotional and social aspects of food and food culture. I encourage you to look dietary shifts as building a foundation for your overall health. I encourage you to follow you heart and intuition towards a healthy balance that supports your mind, body and spirit.
What vitamin deficiency causes scoliosis?
A study published in the journal PMC found that patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis have a lower level of vitamin D compared to a control group. The study also found that patients with scoliosis had the lowest level of vitamin D during winter, which makes sense as sunlight exposure is much less during that time of the year. Talk to your doctor about running labs to learn what your vitamin D levels are and if this is an area you might be deficient. Ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure and supplementation can help support healthy bone development and promote multi system support to a scoliosis body undergoing treatments, preparing for surgery or recovering.
While there is no conclusive research that speaks to how food and nutrition play a role in scoliosis, we do know that the body can reflect different genetic expressions based on the environment within it. Sustaining a scoliosis may be an indicator of inflammation, as previous research has found. Diet and lifestyle change can be a powerfully effective way to reduce inflammation and support a body through healing.
And I can’t end this post without referencing another facet of scoliosis, which is hormone imbalance. Balancing hormones can also be addressed through proper nutrition and diet, further supporting the important relationship between scoliosis and balanced nutrition.
Proper nutrition is a vital component of managing scoliosis and supporting spinal health. By adopting a balanced and nutrient-dense diet, you can provide your body with the necessary building blocks for optimal bone and muscle development. Remember to focus on whole, unprocessed foods, prioritize essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin C, and consult with a healthcare professional, registered dietitian, or nutritionist for personalized care.
A balanced and personalized approach to nutrition, along with proper medical care, can contribute to managing scoliosis and supporting a healthy lifestyle.
(Note: Please remember to conduct your own research and consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.)
