Research has shown that chronic pain, often in the form of fibromyalgia, could be due to central sensitization, where neurons in the spinal cord become sensitized by inflammation or cell damage. Certain chemicals in foods can trigger the release of neurotransmitters that heighten sensitivity, suggesting that diet plays a large role in dealing with chronic pain.
For those who are living with chronic pain include:
- Limit sugar as much as possible, as increased insulin levels can worsen pain
- Eat fresh foods without preservatives or additives
- Avoid caffeine
- Avoid nightshade vegetables
- Eliminate trans fat and fried foods
- Use yeast sparingly
- Avoid pasteurized dairy
- Cut down on carbohydrates
- Avoid aspartame
- Avoid junk food
When you eat a diet consisting of raw, natural foods, you’re increasing the amount of antioxidants in your body, helping to reduce inflammation and lessen pain response.
Powerful anti-inflammatory foods include:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Bok choy
- Celery
- Beets
- Blueberries
- Pineapple
- Salmon
- Walnuts
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Garlic
Chronic pain is a common problem that many people suffer from. While pain pills might be a quick fix, they can also lead to a whole list of possible side effects and health risks. Luckily, there are natural ways to help relieve pain. Besides cleaning up your diet and incorporating some anti-inflammatory foods into your daily routine, spine, leg and joint pain can also be combated with a simple but delicious juice recipe. All you need is pineapple, celery, lemon and carrots.
Pineapple contains bromelain, a natural anti-inflammatory agent that has been used to treat ailments for years. Most of the bromelain in pineapples is found in the core and the stem, so juicing the tough core is a great way to make sure you’re getting enough. Pineapples are cardiovascular-friendly, and they help to reduce inflammation while giving you your fill of antioxidants.
2. CELERY
Celery is a low-calorie veggie choice that is packed with antioxidants such as Vitamin C and flavonoids. The antioxidants in celery come from its phenolic nutrients that have been shown to help protect the body from oxidative damage to cells, blood vessels and organs. Celery also contains beta-carotene, manganese and phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory benefits.
3. LEMON
Lemon and other citrus foods such as oranges, grapefruit and limes are rich in Vitamin C, which helps to build and repair blood vessels, tendons, ligaments and bone. Citrus fruits are also good sources of inflammation-fighting antioxidants. Adding lemon to your juice concoction or squeezing it into your water throughout the day can work wonders when it comes to pain relief.
4. CARROTS
Carrots, squash and sweet potatoes are all rich in Vitamin A and beta carotene, both of which are believed to help fight inflmmation. Carrots and carrot juice make a great addition to an anti-inflammatory diet. To make your own pain-fighting juice, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- – 1/2 cup of pineapple
- – 4 stalks of celery
- – 1 lemon
- – 8 carrots
Directions:
Cut up all of the ingredients and place them in a juicer.
Drink and enjoy!