An alternative to pain meds

Pain medication sometimes is the most suitable treatment for pain management. However, if you have ever taken medication, you know that your tolerance builds, leading you to larger doses. And worse yet, the side effects can be unbearable and can require meds to treat the side effects of meds.

As a chronic pain sufferer I am always exploring alternative pain management options. I came across an article of interest and thought I would share the details.

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A common cause for chronic pain, in particular in the joints, is inflammation. With that said, foods with anti-inflammatory properties are great to ease pain. A balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids is one way to reduce pain naturally. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, and can provide pain relief for patients with chronic pain, osteoporosis, and arthritis.
It’s very easy to add omega-3 fatty acids into a diet program. Seafood, in particular fish, and nuts – almonds and walnuts – are great, healthy, tasty sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are another natural way to consume omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Garlic and Ginger
Spices can have anti-inflammatory powers as well, such as garlic and ginger (which taste great when cooked together, too!).
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another great addition to a balanced diet that can provide natural pain relief and prevent bone loss. A study published in the online journal PLOS One found that vitamin C prevents bone degeneration. There are several fruits and vegetables packed with vitamin C. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, and berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are prime vitamin C fruits. Green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli, also contain high levels vitamin C. Similar to omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C can be consumed as a supplement as well.
4. Quercetin
In addition, most fruits and vegetables contain powerful antioxidants that also reduce inflammation. Berries, for example, contain the biofalovoids anthocyanidin and quercetin, which have anti-inflamatory properties. Researchers are now looking at the effectiveness of quercetin for chronic prostatitis and fibromyalgia.
5. Oleocanthal
The naturally occurring chemical compound oleocanthal has been found to be as effective for pain relief as anti-inflamtory pain medication. A 2010 study published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatism reported that oleocanthal can be applied in the treatment of inflammatory degenerative joint diseases. This compound is found in extra virgin olive oil, which is why olive oil is an excelled substitute for vegetable oil and butter. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants, which as said above have properties that can reduce inflammation.
6. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is another naturally occurring chemical compound that can keep chronic pain at bay. Researchers from Chicago’s Rush Univeristy Medical Center found that this compound can block the enzymes that are a key factor in the cartilage damage that causes back pain. Red wine and red grapes (but make sure the skin is eaten) contain high amounts of resveratrol – adding to the list of red wine’s health benefits. In addition, the compound is found in dark chocolate, peanuts, and blueberries.
Proper nutrition can be a tasty, simple, and fun way to pain relief. In addition to a balanced diet, it is important to exercise routinely, as weight gain is a common cause of chronic pain. Exercise will certainly enhance the benefits experienced along with proper nutrition, and vice versa.

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