High Quality Diet Linked to Reduced Pain Levels in Adults, Regardless of Weight

Conducted as part of the Whyalla Intergenerational Study of Health (WISH) in Australia, the research delves into how dietary patterns affect bodily pain and physical function, offering promising insights for pain management strategies.

The study analysed data from 654 adults using the Dietary Guideline Index (DGI) to measure diet quality and the Short Form-36 Bodily Pain Scale (SF36-BPS) to assess pain levels. The findings revealed that better diet quality is associated with reduced pain levels, particularly in women. Interestingly, this relationship remained significant even when controlling for body fat, waist circumference, and BMI.

“Improving diet quality could play a crucial role in managing pain, even for individuals with higher body weight,” noted Dr. Alison M. Hill, one of the study's authors and a researcher at the University of South Australia. She further emphasized, “Our findings underscore that diet impacts pain independently of body weight, making it an accessible intervention for many.”

The study found a stronger association between diet quality and reduced pain in women compared to men. Women who consumed more core foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy, reported lower pain levels and better physical function, measured through grip strength.

“Women’s stronger response to dietary changes could be due to their heightened immune sensitivity to environmental factors,” explained Dr. Hill. This gender difference highlights the need for tailored dietary interventions for pain management.

Core food groups’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties likely contribute to these pain-reducing benefits. “A nutrient-rich diet may neutralize oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, both of which are linked to chronic pain,” stated Dr. Susan J. Ward, the lead author of the study.

The researchers stress that dietary modifications can be effective even without significant weight loss, making them a practical strategy for individuals who may struggle with long-term weight management.

“Recognizing dietary intake as a crucial component of pain management is especially relevant for those dealing with obesity or chronic pain,” Dr. Hill concluded.

This study emphasizes the critical role of diet in managing chronic pain and improving physical function, particularly for women. By focusing on consuming high-quality, nutrient-rich foods, individuals can take proactive steps toward reducing their pain and enhancing overall well-being.