When suffering from severe pain it’s easy to reach for the painkillers but these can often be ineffective, lead to other problems and require higher and higher doses as your body becomes resistant to them. Is there another way? Is there an alternative to the solution offered to us by big pharma, seeking to promote the sales of their latest opiate infused wonder drug? Here at Bodilight,. we think so!
For thousands of years people have healed themselves through natural remedies found in nature. Below are 9 foods known for their anti-inflammatory and pain relieving qualities.
Coffee: As well as boosting your metabolism, tasting great and giving you a much-needed pick me up in the morning, a cup of coffee provides more antioxidants than a portion of berries. Not only that, research has shown can also reduce the risk of some cancers and provide relief from headaches. It’s these antioxidants that are key in reducing inflammation and pain. BUT in the case of coffee, don’t forget that it comes with a side order of caffeine so consume in moderation as caffeine can have negative side effects when over consumed.
Cherries: These delicious red treats reduce inflammation by neutralising free radicals in the body. This helps to stop tissue inflammation. The Anthocyanins in cherries (they give them the dark red colour) have anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin. Can you believe it? So, don’t pop those aspirin and grab a handful of cherries instead. Raspberries and strawberries also contain pain-fighting anthocyanins so why not mix it up with a berry mix.
Olive Oil: The Mediterranean’s are famed for their healthy diet throughout the world and with good reason. The powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient found in Olive oil are comparable to over the counter pain medications. A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil helps reduce the risk of strokes and some cancers. It’s no wonder the elders in every Greek household get out the olive oil and rub it on their joints in the winter followed by a shot of Ouzo. That also helps with the pain relief but we wouldn’t recommend using alcohol to alleviate pain even though it sounds like a great idea!
Ginger: This root has been used for thousands of years to help with a variety of ailments from stomachaches to heart conditions. The anti-inflammatory properties are amongst it’s many benefits and it is excellent in a variety of foods and tea. It also goes great with cinnamon whose properties are also beneficial in pain relief.
Cinnamon: This delicious spice has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is one of the most powerful healing spices. It has been shown to help reduce heartburn and other conditions in numerous studies and so has made it on our list.
Cayenne pepper: This spicy chilli also acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Capsaicin, the oily compound in cayenne is actually the active ingredient in many prescription, creams, ointments, and patches for arthritis and muscle pain. So pop down to your local curry house and give a spicy dish a go.
Garlic: has proven anti-inflammatory properties and is also effective in relieving psoriasis outbreaks. It may not leave your breath smelling the best after consumption but that’s a small price to pay for its potent healing benefits.
Pineapple: This totally tropical taste also helps to defend against osteoarthritis and improve the symptoms. It’s the enzyme bromelain that alleviates swelling associated with osteoarthritis and It can also help with asthma and cat allergies! WHAT’s that? You heard me correctly. I was taking bromelain tablets when we first adopted a cat and it greatly helped with my wheezing and has since become a regular in my diet.
Turmeric: This is our pick of the bunch to reduce inflammation and can also help with psoriasis. The chemical curcumin which gives turmeric’s it’s golden colour, called curcumin, is a proven anticancer agent by helping to relieve the inflammation that contributes to tumor growth. It works in a similar way as broccoli and cauliflower to clear carcinogens away before they can damage cellular DNA and to repair already damaged DNA.
A good diet can be great as part of a dedicated programme and help with your daily pain management as well as recovery.
Did you know that at Bodilight we have Osteopaths and sports therapists that are trained in nutrition? If you are looking for a holistic approach then send us a message and we can book you in with the appropriate person.