Pain is almost synonymous to aging. As we age, aches and pains of the body will become noticeable and in some cases, it can even affect our quality of life. I remember the first pain I have ever experienced that stayed with me from then on came from my knees. I was still in my 30s, right after I delivered my second child. Back then, I was told that the pain must be an effect of my giving birth and loading up on calcium will eventually take away the pain. Then came the banana treatment which was recommended by my doctor to improve my potassium levels—which is associated with knee pain as well. I do understand back then that aggressive therapy—which includes medications and such– was not a suitable solution for me as I decided to breastfeed the baby instead I was given safe enough pain management program involving right diet and exercise to combat pain. Although we were quite successful in improving my condition without having to take maintenance medications, I know that if I lose sight of my diet, the pain will come back.
The good news is, it can be done. You don’t even have to go out of your way as most of the foods recommended for pain management can be easily bought in supermarkets and groceries, some you can even grow on your own:
·         Berries. Berries are good not only for their antioxidative property but also because they contain resveratrol. Resveratrol protects your cartilage from damage however taking too much of this can actually cause joint pain. Don’t worry as your fresh berries won’t make you overdose on resveratrol, in fact it’s the capsule form that usually receives bad reports so better stick with fresh ones.
·         Ginger. Ginger is very good for those suffering from osteoarthritis. Also, ginger can be used for reducing muscle pain after exercise. What’s good with ginger is that even science has been able to prove its efficiency. In India, ginger is widely used for treating inflammation.
·         Celery and celery seeds. When used regularly, can help keep pain at bay. Aside from pain, they are also good for keeping high blood pressure at normal levels as well as aid in treatment of gout.
·         Turmeric. If you love Indian foods so much, you must be pain-free all these years as Turmeric was found out to be much more powerful than most pain medications in the market today. It is because turmeric inhibits a type of protein inside your body which causes inflammation and pain.
·         Coffee. Hurrah for coffee lovers all over the world! Coffee has been found to boost the effects of over-the-counter pain killers. Furthermore, it makes you more resistant to pain.