Fight Pain...Foods That Help
Many people take pain medications whenever they experience pain. However, recent research suggests that there are actually certain food that have pain-fighting properties. These can also be found in some pain medications which we commonly use. If you prefer to go natural, here are some of the best food that help with pain management.
Cherries
Cherries get its rich red color from phytonutrients called anthocyanins. These are antioxidants which help block inflammation and reduce pain enzymes. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that people who had a bowl of cherries in the morning, whether they ate it as is or added it to oatmeal or cereals, lowered inflammation by up to 25 percent. In addition, runners who drank 12 ounces of cherry juice twice per day before going for a run experienced less muscle pain.
Red Grapes
Did you know? Red grapes contain resveratrol which is a compound that helps block enzymes which are linked to tissue damage. Research at the Rush University Medical Center showed that resveratrol can protect damage caused by back pain. Although the research is not dated, it would not hurt to consume food that contain this compound such as grapes, blueberries and cranberries as these are rich in other antioxidants as well. In fact, a glass of red wine can also have its benefits since resveratrol in red wine is absorbed by the body more easily.
Papaya
Papain, an enzyme found in papaya, helps fight pain. In fact, it has been used by doctors for patients who are experiencing back pain. It can be purchased over-the-counter in different supplements to help treat back and body pain. However, it is still more beneficial to eat the fruit rather than the supplement – papaya contains pain-fighting antioxidants in its skin which we miss out on when we take the supplements. Make salads, smoothies or salsa with your papaya to include it in your diet.
Soy
If you want to keep pain caused by osteoarthritis at bay by up to 30 percent or more, consume more soy. According to a study by the Oklahoma State University, consuming 40 grams of soy protein per day for a few months cut the use of pain medications of patients by half. Soy contains isoflavones which are hormones that contain anti-inflammatory properties. Food rich in soy include tofu, soy milk and burgers. However, you have to wait around two to three weeks for it to take effect.
These are only some of the best food that help fight pain. Whenever you experience mild pain, try consuming these food before taking pain medication. It would also be good to fight pain naturally as you can avoid side effects which can be caused by some medications. Nonetheless, it is best to get the advice of doctors if your pain becomes unbearable or persistent. Getting these in your diet though will benefit your body as besides its pain-fighting properties, it also contains vitamins and minerals to make you healthy.
Stephen Cole is an experienced Fitness Course Consultant specializing in holistic fitness camp programmes. Visit to check out his fitness programmes in UK.
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