With inflammatory foods so readily at our fingertips, more and more people are experiencing pain. Keep reading for some practical tips that can help keep you moving without so many squeaks and creaks.
DO:
Eat healthy fats like salmon, olive oil, avocados, real butter, nuts and seeds. I think of healthy fat like the "WD-40" of the joints. Healthy fat is also important for skin, brain, hormone and cardiovascular health.
Eat foods high in sulfur like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels Sprouts. You've probably heard of glucosamine. It's the sulfur that is known for supporting joint health.
Hydrate. Aim for half of your weight in ounces of pure water a day. Reverse Osmosis is my favorite. Here is the system that I have:
Since undigested food is known to contribute to inflammation, I suggest taking an enzyme formula. Find a Naturopath that can help you determine the right one for you, since taking the wrong one can cause issues.
Consider Turmeric, which is known for it's ani-inflammatory properties. My clients love the one in the "Inflammation Busters" plan here.
Eat cherries! They contain anthocyanins that can help reduce pain and inflammation. In fact, according to Bowden and Sinatra in their book The Great Cholesterol Myth, eating cherries on a regular basis can also help lower heart attack and stroke risk.
Move your body. If you are in too much pain to exercise, find some breathing exercises or gently stretches that will get blood flowing and move the lymphatic system. A stagnant or congested lymphatic system is another known cause of pain. See my blog here for more information about the lymphatic system.
Consider seeing a chiropractor. Proper alignment can do wonders for reducing pain!
DON'T (or greatly reduce):
Don't eat processed sugar, as it's known as one of the most inflammatory foods. Processed sugar is more addictive than cocaine, but giving it up can have many health benefits: boosted immune system, reduced pain, easier to lose weight, lower your chance of type 2 diabetes and more. Since processed sugar is hidden in many foods, make sure to read labels.
Don't eat the BAD fats like vegetable oils, hydrogenated oils and fried foods. In fact, in her book Deep Nutrition, Dr. Shannahan says that the 2 worst foods you can consume are processed sugar and bad fats.
For some people, white flour can be very inflammatory, so I recommend avoiding it. If you do eat grains, sprouted grains and/or ancient grains are best.
If you're struggling with joint pain and inflammation, this does not have to be your story. There are simple steps you can take to improve your quality of life.
Wishing you the best.
Kelly Cullen, ND
Pleasant Wellness
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