Vitamins to Relieve Backache

Vitamins to Relieve Backache
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Backaches are among the most common medical complaints. Backaches may be the result of an injury to a disk to a muscle strain. Backaches may either be acute or chronic. Acute backaches are sudden and are generally the result of misusing your body in some way. Chronic backaches are recurring and may be brought on by any type of movement. Certain vitamins such as vitamins D, C and B-12 may aid in relieving pain due to backaches. Always consult with your physician prior to adding vitamin supplements to your dietary regimen.

Vitamin D

According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is not naturally present in many foods. Vitamin D is necessary for the building and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. In addition, vitamin D may aid in reducing inflammation that causes backaches. Vitamin D plays a major role in helping your body absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiencies may lead to skeletal deformities, muscular weakness and weak bones. Spine Universe states that you will not notice immediate backache relief when taking vitamin D as the vitamin needs time to build up in your body to treat the source of your pain. The recommended daily dosage of vitamin D for men and women ages 18 to 50 is 5mcg. For men and women between the ages of 50 and 70 should take 10mcg daily and those over 70 should take 15mcg.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that is not naturally found in your body. Therefore, vitamin C must be supplemented through your diet. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis, growth and repair of cell tissues and is a powerful antioxidant. Collagen is the structural component of your bone, ligaments, tendons and blood vessels. Doctors have found that people suffering from backaches may benefit from adding vitamin C supplements to their diets. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, tomatoes and strawberries. The recommended daily vitamin C intake is determined by age and gender.

Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 is essential for healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. According to Spine Universe, a progressive disease called pernicious anemia is caused when your body does not receive enough vitamin B-12. This disease causes an interruption in the maturation of the red blood cells found in your bone marrow and may lead to back pain and backaches. Symptoms of this condition include weakness, weight loss, loss of memory and confusion. Eggs, cheese, fish and milk are good sources of B-12. The recommended daily vitamin B-12 intake for men and women over the age of 18 is 2.0 mcg.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Last updated on: Nov 19, 2010

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