It’s so important for athletes to maintain a healthy spine to produce peak performance and prevent injuries. With conditioning, exercising, and training being so heavily concentrated on, nutrition can be overlooked. Here’s how nutrition influences spinal health in athletes:

• Diet and Recovery: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help to reduce inflammation, support recovery, and prevent back pain. Berries and nuts are great foods to eat that are filled with antioxidants. Consuming protein rich foods can help to support muscle repair and recovery. 
• Essential Nutrients For Spinal Health: The three main nutrients that you need to maintain a healthy spine are calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Calcium helps to maintain bone mass and strength which helps to reduce the risk of fractures. Vitamin D helps to absorb calcium into the body. Omega-3 fatty acids help to relieve chronic inflammation. 
• Stay Hydrated: It’s so important to stay hydrated throughout the day and while playing sports to deliver the nutrients your spine needs.