Inflammation is the body’s natural response to an injury. Pain is often associated with this response, but it is normally beneficial. Inflammation is a reaction that happens to heal and prevent infection. However, chronic inflammatory changes can be bad for our health.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we encourage our patients to practice wellness in all avenues of their lives. Though we prescribe medications and other therapies for treatment, some of the best treatment can be done by the patients themselves. To reduce inflammation and pain, patients should seek the following foods to help provide relief.
Salmon. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in salmon have anti-inflammatory properties. This nutrition is good for the heart and for fighting inflammation in other regions of the body. Omega-3s are also found in sardines, anchovies, and trout. According to the American Health Association, a person should have two servings of fish each week for good heart health.
Ginger. Recently, the University of Georgia researchers found that ginger can reduce muscle pain by 25 percent after exercising. The study also suggested that ginger could replace non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. Ginger has pain-relieving properties that can also reduce osteoarthritis pain.
Cherries. Along with other red, purple, and blue fruits, cherries help reduce pain with their anti-inflammatory properties. The phytonutrient called anthocyanin help promote antioxidant properties and relieve pain.
Olive Oil. This anti-inflammatory food can help with long-term pain relief and inflammation. Extra virgin olive oil has a compound called oleocanthal that acts in the same way as NSAIDs do. Olive oil has a low acidity level and stronger in flavor. Instead of using butter while you cook, choose olive oil!
According to the American Chronic Pain Association, 35 percent of adults in the United States suffers from chronic pain. Luckily, the professionals at Southwest Spine and Pain Center target pain head on and promote treatment outside of the office. For more information about healthy dieting for pain relief, contact a health professional at Southwest Spine and Pain Center, today!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With four locations and same day appointments, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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