Cervical disc disease is more than simple neck pain. This degenerative progression can cause radiating pain, numbness and weakness through your neck, shoulders, arms and hands. Although disc degeneration is most often due to age, lifestyle also plays a part. It may surprise you to know what an important role diet, nutrition and ideal weight has on cervical disc health. Keep your spine healthy with exercise and proper nutrition.
Cervical Discs
The cervical spine in your neck consists of seven bones or vertebrae separated by cushioned discs. Your cervical discs stabilize your neck and allow it to turn smoothly from side to side and bend forward to back. The two upper cervical vertebrae are highly modified to form the connection to the skull and to allow rotation of the head. Over time, your discs can start to degenerate, according to the text "Medical, Psychosocial and Vocational Aspects of Disability," and disc degeneration frequently affects the function of the neck. Common symptoms are neck pain and stiffness.
Balanced Diet
Since bones store needed calcium, adequate intake is vital for strong bones. Calcium is absorbed through food; your body does not generate it. Get enough of the mineral from low-fat or nonfat dairy, deep green vegetables, beans, peas, orange juice, nuts, bread, cereal, black beans, salmon, sardines, corn tortillas and brown sugar. Consume milk fortified with vitamin D; it assists in the absorption of calcium. A balanced diet not only keeps bones healthy, it also helps with the pain of degeneration. Your cervical discs need to remain hydrated and oxygenated. Sip water throughout the day and reduce caffeine drinks. Omit alcohol or limit your consumption; it causes dehydration.
Nutrition
Additional nutrition items to your diet should include vitamin A, which is found in beef, chicken livers, dairy, apricots, nectarines and cantaloupes; vitamin B-12, which you can obtain from liver, fish, red meat, poultry, milk, eggs and cheese; and vitamin C, which is in strawberries, kiwi, citrus fruit, tomatoes, green peppers and sweet potatoes. Besides milk, vitamin D is in egg yolks and fish oils. Other important nutrients are vitamin K in liver, pork and green leafy vegetables; iron found in liver, pork, fish, shellfish, red meat, poultry, lentils, eggs, soy and grain; and magnesium found in whole grains and breads, beans, seeds, nuts, potatoes and shrimp.
Additional Tips
Watch your posture by maintaining a straight neck and supported back. If you smoke, quit; it is a risk factor for cervical disc disease. Exercise is an important factor in maintaining ideal weight. Your bones will be healthy longer when there is less weight bearing on them. If you are not able to maintain a balanced diet, vitamin supplements can make up for the deficit. Check with your physician before changing your diet or adding supplements.
