People in Winter Haven, FL, often look for natural alternatives to harsh medications for arthritic pain relief. It’s not that they don’t believe in modern science, it’s that they follow the less is more approach to pain relief for arthritis. If you can find a healthy alternative that reduces or eliminates the need for prescription or OTC drugs, why not use it? There are convincing studies that show diet and exercise can help and provide other benefits for the body.
Reducing arthritis pain might be as simple as a guided exercise program.
When your joints hurt, nothing about exercising is appealing, but it’s one thing most healthcare professionals feel will help. Exercise triggers the body’s natural painkiller and stimulates circulation. It strengthens muscles and ligaments to help relieve pressure on the joints and improves bone strength and balance. It improves flexibility and reduces stiffness. Exercise improves the movement of the synovial fluid in the joints which provides nutrients and cushioning of the joints. A personal trainer can create a low-impact exercise program that can help reduce or eliminate the pain.
What you eat can make a difference.
Cruciferous vegetables should be part of everyone’s diet, but especially those with arthritis. These vegetables include cabbage, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. The sulforaphane in crucifers can slow cartilage damage. Include food with omega-3 fatty acids, too. These include flaxseed, salmon, walnuts, and tuna. Increasing omega-3 fatty acids reduces inflammation. Other foods providing joint pain relief are tart cherry juice and blueberries. Both are high in anthocyanin which is also anti-inflammatory.
Adding spices to your cooking can bring relief.
Sprinkle turmeric on your food to get the benefits of this anti-inflammatory herb. It has a mild taste that you’ll barely notice but can help relieve your pain. It’s the curcumin in the turmeric that brings the benefits. In India, it’s been used for centuries to help treat arthritic pain. Adding garlic to food also helps with many ailments, including inflammation. The diallyl disulfide in the garlic even shows promise to rebuild cartilage. Food high in vitamin C can also reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.
- When you exercise to help reduce arthritic pain, it also helps you remain more flexible, builds your endurance, and improves your sleep at night. Lack of sleep can make arthritic pain feel even worse.
- If you’re overweight, losing weight can help bring arthritic relief, especially in the knees and hips. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help with that.
- Getting out in the sun to boost your vitamin D also provides a big benefit. Take off your shoes and walk on the grass barefoot. It’s a technique known as grounding that can soothe pain and help you relax.
- Always check with your healthcare professional before changing your diet or starting an exercise program. Never stop medication before you discuss it with your healthcare.
For more information, contact us today at Habitat Health & Fitness