By Caroline Schmitt, Certified Holistic Nutritionist
I don't know of many people - athlete, or not, that hasn't had some sort of injury or joint pain. We have all suffered in some form or another and - while most people start with traditional remedies and professionals - if those don't work we'll likely turn to some holistic approaches.
Here are some ways to combat and even reverse pain from a natural standpoint - with a corrective diet and the use of supplements. There are no side effects, so it's well worth a try. And don't attempt just taking herbs or supplements - you have to make dietary changes to help your body heal. It all starts at the table.
Be wary of acid-producing foods such as red meat, dairy products, fried and sugary foods. Heavy aerobic activity also produces acid so,when you combine that with acid-producing foods, you can deplete the alkaline reserve in your body. Therefore, you need to eat more alkalining foods to nourish your body and joints. Acid foods also weaken the immune system.
Eat more of foods like fish, fresh vegetables, whole grains and fresh fruit. If you are not a big carrot and celery juice fan, fresh pineapple juice contains bromelain which aids the digestive system, neutralizes acids, and can reduce inflammation. Fresh cherry juice is another alkalizer and helps with arthritis and gout. It is best mixed with apple juice or water and is loaded in vitamins and minerals.
Foods such as asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions contain sulfur, which helps repair and rebuild bone, cartilage and connective tissue.Dark green leafy vegetables, non-acid-producing fruits, whole grains, oatmeal,brown rice, avocados, and fish are beneficial healing foods.
Taking extra fish oil tablets containing Omega 3 are great for any type of inflammation. Another great supplement is glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate - these are best taken together as they help strengthenjoints, ligaments, and tendons.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects joints from free radicals, and be sure to use the d-alpha-tocopherol form.
The right kind of herbs can improve bone and joint health.These include alfalfa, cats claw, ginger, and nettle leaf. Turmeric, the main ingredient in curry powder, has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.
Here is the bottom line. If you are fed up with the pain and tired of eating Ibuprofen, minimize the acid-producing foods in your diet, and focus instead on whole foods. Then try a combination of supplements - taken as recommended - and you should feel a difference in a matter of weeks.
