While it may seem hard to believe, emerging evidence and studies suggest a robust relationship between our gut’s microbiome of good bacteria and chronic pain. It is believed that through the gut-brain axis (GBA), the gut’s good bacteria (microbiota) communicate pain to the brain through the peripheral nervous system, forming a possible connection to overall gut health and chronic pain. At Macomb Pain Management, we want all of our patients to be informed about developments in pain management and what they can mean for our patients. Let’s explore the role of gut health and whether probiotics and nutrition can benefit patients with chronic pain.
The Link Between Gut Health and Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation is the mechanism of action in the body responsible for pain in several ailments like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis. While it is well known that inflammation in the body often leads to pain, more attention has recently been paid to research that shows that an imbalanced gut microbiome can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout the body, possibly worsening pain levels. The body’s gut microbiome is critical in regulating the immune system. When it becomes thrown out of sync from a poor diet, stress, or antibiotics, it can weaken the intestinal barriers in the body. The weakening of the intestinal barriers in the body has been coined “leaky gut.” When this happens, undigested food particles, nutrients, and other toxins can enter the body’s bloodstream, triggering an immune response and causing inflammation. Understanding how to prevent this inflammation from occurring from a “leaky gut” may prove vital to future pain management treatment plans.
Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition for Gut Health
While so much of the food we consume today is processed and fed antibiotics, several anti-inflammatory, nutrient-rich foods contribute to good gut health that patients can incorporate into their diets. These include:
Fiber-Rich Foods: Fiber plays a vital role in the gut by serving as a prebiotic for beneficial bacteria in our digestive system. Besides helping our gut’s microbiome of beneficial bacteria, fiber helps to regulate bowel movements and reduce bloating that can lead to stomach discomfort. Fiber-rich foods include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Legumes
- Whole grains
Incorporating these foods into your diet can help decrease inflammation and pain caused by a leaky gut.
Fermented Foods: Fermented foods are often rich in beneficial bacteria that our gut needs to break down food and nutrients that we eat. These beneficial bacteria are known as probiotics and can be especially helpful for patients dealing with side effects after taking antibiotics that can wipe out beneficial bacteria in the gut. Fermented foods that are rich in probiotics include:
- Certain yogurts are made with milk fermented with beneficial bacteria
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Miso
- Kombucha
- Fermented pickles
- Fermented vegetables
Learning how to incorporate foods rich in fiber and probiotics can increase the health of your gut and may lead to less inflammation throughout the body and less chronic pain.
Practical Steps for Patients to Introduce an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Before beginning any new diet, consult with your doctor to ensure it’s safe for your body. That being said, when introducing foods to your diet that are rich in fiber and probiotics, it is best to start slowly to give your body time to adjust to its new diet. At Macomb Pain Management, our team can work with you to build a diet tailored to your needs, including fiber and probiotic-rich foods.
Contact Macomb Pain Management For More Information About Gut Health and How It Relates to Pain Management
If chronic pain and inflammation are causing you to miss out on the things you love in life, Macomb Pain Management and our team of pain management specialists can help. To start building a pain management plan with a gut-healthy diet, contact our office today at (248) 844-8281.
