Nutritional Approaches to Managing Toronto Disc Degeneration

May 27, 2025

The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration seemed to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings point to a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, we encourage a multi-pronged approach to managing disc degeneration: decreasing pain with Cox® spinal manipulation and promoting healthier discs with better diet and nutrition.

DISC DEGENERATION INFLUENCES: Metabolic and Cellular Processes

Recent research has been revealing fascinating connections between our metabolic and cellular processes and their role in spinal degeneration. For instance, Guo et al. (1) found that metabolic syndrome can exacerbate spinal degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation, demonstrating just how much systemic factors like overall health can influence spinal health. On the other hand, Feng et al. (2) dove into the world of mitophagy—the process of cleaning out damaged mitochondria—within key parts of intervertebral discs like the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate. Their work offers stimulating insights into potential therapies for decelerating or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this mean for us? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t initiated by just one thing—it’s a complex process influenced by both systemic issues, like metabolic health, and cellular mechanisms, like mitophagy. This indicates the need for a well-rounded approach to spinal care, one that is more than just managing symptoms to address the root causes. Indeed, a deeper understanding of the intricate cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are sensible.

Toronto CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin and Vitamin D Levels

Recent research studies also featured a few tips that can help contain disc degeneration. Wu et al (3) explored how the compound quercitrin could assist in the treatment of spinal disc degeneration by reducing inflammation and preventing cell damage. Adding quercitrin into future therapies may offer a promising solution for managing disc degeneration. Li et al (4) detailed how being low in Vitamin D can worsen spinal disc degeneration by starting processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe consider adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily regimen? We’ll talk at your next Toronto chiropractic appointment.

WHAT TO DO?

Don’t let disc degeneration bother you. The reality is that spinal degeneration is a natural part of aging, but taking charge of your spinal health early on can make a huge difference. By understanding the factors at play and adopting preventative measures, we can delay or even negate the impact of spinal degeneration, keeping our spines stronger and healthier for longer. It is never too early—or too late—to start taking care of your spine!

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to enhance clinical outcomes.

CONTACT Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

Make your Toronto chiropractic appointment with Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre soon.