Barriers and facilitators to adhering to an anti-inflammatory diet for individuals with spinal cord injuries

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators of an anti-inflammatory diet in people with spinal cord injury. Six participants (age range of 23–68 years, three women and three men) who had previously completed an anti-inflammatory diet study were interviewed. Facilitators identified were family support, autonomy over meal choice, peer support, health benefits gained, and implementation of adherence strategies. The main barriers discussed were lack of motivation after study period ended, social events, diet expenses, and lack of knowledge about the diet. Several health benefits including reductions in pain, edema, and improvements in cognition and mobility were reported.