Chronic pain is a widespread health issue that affects up to 116 million Americans. Chronic pain involves various parts of the body and includes muscle pain and nerve pain. It may also be felt in different regions as in those in the pelvis, knees, back, and head just to name a few. The most common cause of long-term pain is inflammation. The symptoms associated with chronic pain are fatigue, abnormal sleeping patterns, muscle and tissue pain.
Long-term pain can interfere with completing daily activities and result in the development of secondary health conditions, including depression. For treatment and management, most people seek the expertise of medical specialists who then prescribe customized exercises and medications to alleviate symptoms.
Diet also plays a crucial role in keeping the symptoms at bay. Numerous studies reveal that the right food items can reduce the rate and intensity of inflammation, block pain signals in the body, and increase the chemicals from the brain that induce comfort and relief.
- Olive Oil
Olive oil works similarly to pain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. It is proven to fight chronic pain. Olive oils is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols that alleviate the causes of pain in the body. It features compounds called oleocanthal with strong anti-inflammatory qualities that reduce painful and irritating painful joint pain inflammation.
The regular intake of olive oil improves both function and vitality. There are many ways to use olive oil. You can use it in the preparation of meals or as part of massage therapy when directly applied to the affected region of the body. For best results, it is recommended to use extra virgin olive oil.
- Salmon
Salmon is teeming with Omega-3 fatty acids that relieve pain. It is also an excellent source of Vitamin D. Numerous studies show the relationship between Vitamin D and chronic pain.
In addition, research suggests that Omega-3 fatty acids that are present in salmon protect the body as it reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Lastly, Omega-3 fatty acids can lessen the symptoms of certain diseases.
- Garlic
Garlic contains anti-inflammatory compounds as well as antibacterial properties that reduce chronic pain. It has high levels of sulfur that stimulates the development of T helper cells resulting in the boost of immune system functioning. In addition, compounds found in garlic may help reduce the swelling and pain felt by the body.
Ideally, you should eat at least 3 cloves of fresh garlic in the morning. You may also apply garlic oil as form of topical analgesic.
- Onions
Onions are rich in a beneficial compound called quercetin- an antioxidant that fights enzymes causing inflammation. It is especially great for people who want to get rid of inflammation in the joints.
Another benefit that can be derived from the intake of quercetin is lowered bad cholesterol levels. It also reduces the chances of developing heart conditions as well as slowdown the progression of cancer.
- Turmeric
One powerful kitchen ingredient that you can use to battle chronic pain is turmeric. It features an organic compound called curcumin that helps curb inflammation and pain. In addition, turmeric shields the body from further tissue destruction and joint inflammation. Lastly, turmeric is useful if your goal is to improve overall nerve cell functioning.
Ideally, you need to take one tablespoon of turmeric powder mixed in a glass of warm milk daily.
You may also try using turmeric powder in capsule form.
- Ginger
Ginger is probably one of the most powerful natural painkillers. It boasts the anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce discomfort and pain during inflammation. Other beneficial substances that can be found in ginger include zingerone, shogaols, and paradols- all of which boast characteristics similar to ibuprofen and aspiring.
