With advanced medical technologies Spinal surgeries are becoming more and more successful, and the risks of complications have minimised significantly. Though doctors provide detailed guidelines on activity modifications to help the spine heal better, your diet is also a major part of those guidelines, which provides the nutrients that boost the healing process.
Dark Green Leafy Veggies:
spinach, kale, collard greens, and other leafy vegetables that are naturally dark green are rich in magnesium, which plays a crucial role in providing oxygen to the nerves. They are also rich in Vitamin B9 or Folate, which maintains the cell production and the neurological balance essential for spinal cord development.
Different green veggies also provide vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, E, and K, which are vital antioxidant providers for the cells. And since leafy vegetables are primarily fibres, they help waste flow through the digestive tract efficiently and prevent straining during bowel movements.
Orange-Coloured Veggies:
The bright orange colour that some veggies like sweet potato, pumpkin, and carrots have comes from their beta-carotene content. This beta-carotene is converted into Vitamin A and is mainly used by our body to keep our skin cells healthy and supple. But some studies have shown that this beta-carotene can also help fight symptoms like oxidative stress and neuro inflammation, which are common in spinal surgical recovery.
Citrus Fruits & Berries:
Vitamin C is a crucial player in promoting the healing of scar tissues and collagen formation, which ultimately helps our skin, bones, and connective tissues. Hence, consuming fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit which are widely known sources of Vitamin C every day while you are in recovery.
And when it comes to promoting healing, berries like blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, etc. are a must, since they are a major source of antioxidants and water which help remove toxins and prevent further damage to the central nervous system. Additionally, berries also contain resveratrol, which helps reduce oxidative stress in the spine.
Beans & Nuts:
If you make a list of foods that provide multiple essential nutrients, beans will make the top. Rich in fibre, protein, folate, Vitamin K, and other traces of nutrients, beans can support digestion, blood pressure, and bone health to boost your spinal recovery.
Nuts like walnuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios, etc. also contain multiple nutrients such as calcium, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorous, fibre, etc. And most importantly, walnuts provide Omega-3 fatty acids that are vital for nerve regeneration.
Fishes & Dairies:
Fishes with cod liver oils are a primary source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent nerve damage and rapidly boost nerve cell regeneration.
Ultimately, for the vertebral bones to grow and strengthen, they mainly need calcium and vitamin D, which is sufficiently supplied to them through dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese, which you consume in your day-to-day diet.
Our Spine specialist in Pune at SaiShree Hospital can help you in devising a personalised diet for your recovery period and also guide you throughout your surgery with tips to get the best treatment. To reach out to our spinal cord specialist in Pune, visit the SaiShree Hospital website and book your appointment at your convenience.