Foods That Cause Sciatica

Is back pain causing you trouble?

Sciatica is not a disease, but a condition characterized by lower back pain, according to the Joint Support Supplement. They note that because there are many conditions that cause sciatica, it is often difficult to pinpoint how to get relief. By taking some educated guesses as to possible causes of this condition, there are foods that you should avoid that will probably worsen your condition.

Causes

Possible causes of sciatica are numerous, according to the Ground Report. They include diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), thyroid disease, metabolism imbalances, constipation, nutrient deficiencies, infection, inflammation pressing on the nerve, gout, alcohol abuse and direct trauma and stress.

Considerations

Direct trauma and constipation are two of the main reasons people suffer from sciatica, according to the Ground Report. Constipation is the easiest to treat by the foods you eat and should avoid eating. Ironically, people do not often link this condition to sciatica at all, according to the Ground Report. However, because constipation is such a common cause for sciatica, there are foods you should avoid that will help ease your sciatic pain.

Prevention/Solution

Primarily, according to the Ground Report, you should avoid processed corn products. Corn chips are first on the list of foods to avoid. Stress, which causes hormone levels to elevate and which are released through nerve endings, can also cause sciatica, according to the Ground Report. Therefore, staying away from stressor foods will help. This list includes caffeine in coffee and sodas, refined foods, carbonated drinks, refined sugar and chocolate. You should also give up cigarettes and alcohol.

Time Frame

If foods are the cause for your sciatica, you will not receive immediate relief by giving them up, according to the Ground Report. It may take a while for the body to adjust to the changes. Give your new diet some time to work.

Theories/Speculation

The good news is that some foods and herbal remedies provide relief for sciatica, according to the Joint Support Supplement. Drinking a minimum of 10 ounces of the juices from potatoes and celery leaves seems to help. Elderberry juice or tea may help too. Raw garlic or garlic supplements, along with vitamin B1 and B-complex, give relief from aches and pains. Foods containing B1 such as green peas, spinach, liver, beef, pork, navy beans, nuts, pinto beans, bananas, whole grain cereals and breads and unpolished rice and legumes are also helpful. Drinking plenty of water helps increase circulation, which will help as well.

Warning

If you plan to take garlic and are already taking anticoagulants for bleeding disorders or ulcers, please check with your doctor before taking any garlic supplements.

References

• Joint Support Supplement
• Ground Report