Diet In Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases are characterized by not having a cure, but are prolonged over time. On many occasions their pathophysiology, the causes that produce them or, at least, the solution are unknown.
This does not mean that there is no mode of treatment that can alleviate the symptoms, to facilitate the life of those who suffer from this type of pathology. In fact, many times the same patients are good developers of certain dietary interventions.
The objective of eating in these types of situations is to reduce the levels of inflammation, oxidative stress and pain. For this, a series of foods rich in phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals are chosen as a priority. In addition, it is worth highlighting the need to restrict foods capable of promoting inflammatory processes.
Anti-inflammatory foods in chronic diseases
One of the nutrients that is especially relevant in the dietary treatment of chronic diseases is omega 3 fatty acid. This class of lipids are capable of reducing the body’s markers of inflammation, while improving the individual’s lipid profile, such as and as stated in an article published in the journal Biochemical Society Transactions .
These fats can be found in products such as oily fish, raw vegetable oils, seeds, or avocado. Its consumption must be regular to guarantee the modulating effect of these nutrients on the inflammatory feedback mechanisms.
Phytonutrients against pain in chronic diseases
Other compounds capable of influencing the management of this type of chronic diseases are phytonutrients. These are substances of an organic nature present, above all, in vegetables.
They have the ability to modulate inflammation and reduce oxidative stress. This is indicated by a study published in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellullar Longevity . Phytochemicals are capable of reducing cell damage and therefore preventing aging.
In addition, they affect some physiological pathways that are responsible for modulating pain and sensitivity of the nervous system. For this reason they are of special importance in the management of chronic diseases. It is essential to include foods from the plant kingdom in the diet on a frequent basis.
Supplements that may help
An example of a supplement is melatonin. This hormone is responsible for modulating the circadian cycles of sleep and increases the quality of rest. It has a marked antioxidant character and is related to the prevention of metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. It is even capable of alleviating pain in chronic diseases such as fibromyalgia, although high doses must be used for this.
Another example is probiotics. The health of the microbiota is related to protection against the development of chronic and complex diseases. To minimize the risk of intestinal dysbiosis, you can resort to the use of pro and prebiotic supplements. In this way the diversity of the flora is improved and, with it, the state of health.
Improve diet to manage chronic diseases
Chronic diseases do not have a cure. But it is possible to handle them from a pharmacological and dietary point of view. For this, it is key to emphasize the intake of foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity. These products are capable of influencing the perception of pain and reducing cell damage.
On the other hand, it is possible to resort to the use of dietary supplements. Some of them, such as melatonin or probiotics, reduce the risk and regulate aggressive symptoms of chronicity, such as pain.
However, it is necessary to choose the product correctly. Before consuming any supplement or supplement, it is recommended to visit a specialist, so that he or she confirms the need for its intake and guides the correct way to carry it out.
Remember that a varied and healthy diet, together with the practice of physical exercise on a regular basis, is the best way to prevent the development of diseases. A healthy lifestyle is the key to a quality and balanced existence.
