Chronic pain is an unfortunately common occurrence, affecting roughly one in three of all Americans. Pain medication typically just masks the symptoms without addressing the root cause and frequently causes more trouble than it’s worth such as negative side effects and addiction. Fortunately, pain medication isn’t the only way to address chronic pain—you can also treat your chronic pain naturally. Below are five foods which can help you alleviate different types of chronic pain naturally and how Nigus Chiropractic & Acupuncture can help.
- Ginger
This powerfully tasting root has been used for thousands of years to treat pain. Ginger is most commonly used to treat stomach ailments such as nausea, but you can also use this powerful anti-inflammatory to treat other conditions such as arthritis and migraines. Most people prefer to boil the root into a tea, but you can also grate a small amount into your favorite Asian-inspired dish, soup, or juice.
- Yogurt
Some pain can be caused by not having enough “good bacteria” (probiotics) in your body. One food that is rich in probiotics is yogurt, which can help relieve bloating and inflammation, especially in the bowels. Make sure when shopping for a good yogurt that it says “live and active cultures,” as this signals it has the probiotics you need. Vegan sources of probiotics include kombucha, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
- Mint
Not only are they a popular dessert flavor and breath freshener, the various types of mint are powerful ingredients in the fight against pain. Mint oil can alleviate muscle pain and migraines, and peppermint tea is a natural treatment for any pain, even menstrual cramps. Adding wintergreen can add an anti-inflammatory component to the mix. Just add the leaves to boiling water and allow it to steep into a tea.
- Cherries
Cherries contain powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins (the source of their red color) which actively fight inflammation in the body. This makes eating a bowl of cherries an effective remedy for joint and muscle pain. Raspberries and strawberries also contain anthocyanins, but at a much smaller dose.
- Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Not only do the fatty acids help lubricate achy joints, they also help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow through the body. This helps reduce the inflammation which causes pain in the joints and provide nutrients and oxygen to the spinal discs, alleviating back pain. Wild-caught salmon is the best, as it tends to contain more nutrients than farmed.
Your diet may be the key to eliminating your chronic pain, but if your pain persists even after you try these natural remedies, it may suggest that there is a deeper issue that needs correcting. In that case, it might be time to see your chiropractor for a checkup. We can help you find the cause of your pain and get your body back into alignment so that you can live your life healthily and pain-free.