Contents
- 1 and Health
- 1.1 1. Start an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- 1.2 2. Increase Your Intake of Vitamin D
- 1.3 3. Take a Turmeric Supplement
- 1.4 4. Enjoy a Cup of Green Tea
- 1.5 5. Intermittent Fasting
- 1.6 6. Consider Glucosamine and Chondroitin
- 1.7 7. Don’t Forget Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- 1.8 8. Soak in Epsom Salts
- 1.9 9. Exercise Regularly
- 1.10 10. Consider Acupuncture or Massage
and Health
Suffering from joint pain can be debilitating and frustrating, leaving you feeling helpless and hopeless. However, you don’t have to rely exclusively on pharmaceutical intervention to dull the ache. Instead, consider these 10 natural remedies for joint pain to help reduce inflammation, swelling and stiffness associated with joint pain.
1. Start an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
One of the simplest and most effective steps you can take to reduce discomfort associated with joint pain is to change what you eat. An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on limiting foods that can cause inflammation, such as processed and refined sugars, certain vegetable oils, and red and processed meats. Instead, focus on consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, fermentation sources (such as kimchi and sauerkraut), whole grains, and proteins such as oysters, mussels, beans, and nuts.
2. Increase Your Intake of Vitamin D
Studies have demonstrated a connection between low levels of vitamin D and chronic joint pain. So, increasing your intake of vitamin D through either fortified food or supplements can be an effective natural remedy for joint pain. Many foods are now fortified with vitamin D, and supplements are also readily available. Be sure to consult your physician before starting a vitamin regimen to ensure that you don’t exceed the recommended daily intake.
3. Take a Turmeric Supplement
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and consuming it regularly has been demonstrated to significantly reduce joint discomfort. However, due to the low concentration rate of curcumins (the active ingredient in turmeric) in the spice itself, a supplement may be necessary. This supplement may need to be taken regularly over several months before noticeable relief is experienced.
4. Enjoy a Cup of Green Tea
Green tea has powerful natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce joint pain. Make it a point to enjoy two to three cups of semi-sweet green tea each day for best results. If plain green tea doesn’t tantalize your taste buds, you can try adding a bit of lemon, honey, or ginger for flavor.
5. Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting diets, such as the eating windows plan, has been shown to reduce inflammation and joint pain. When you subject your body to an extended period of time with no caloric intake, it prompts a healing response and your body releases biochemical that can reduce inflammation in the joints and throughout the body.
6. Consider Glucosamine and Chondroitin
These two compounds are naturally present in the body and form part of the cartilage and connective tissue in the joints. Supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin are believed to help keep joints healthy and reduce the risk of joint injury. Taking a supplement with a combination of these two ingredients can reduce pain and improve function in some for people with osteoarthritis.
7. Don’t Forget Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that can help to reduce joint inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids also slow cartilage breakdown and keep the joints lubricated and flexible. Eating a diet rich in these healthy fats, such as salmon, soya beans and mackerel, can be beneficial for joint health. Supplements are also available.
8. Soak in Epsom Salts
Soaking in a hot bath with Epsom salts can help to quickly reduce joint pain and improve circulation, due to the fact that Epsom salts are a natural source of magnesium and sulfate, both of which reduces inflammation. Soaking in a hot bath with Epsom salts for 20-30 minutes twice a week can be beneficial in reducing joint pain.
9. Exercise Regularly
Though it may seem counterintuitive at first, regular exercise can be one of the best natural remedies for joint pain. No matter what your fitness level is, there are low impact exercises that will give you the benefits of increased range of movement, strength and flexibility, which can all help to reduce pain and stiffness associated with joint issues.
10. Consider Acupuncture or Massage
Acupuncture is an ancient healing art that involves the use of thin needles to relieve pain and stimulate healing in the body. Studies have shown that acupuncture can be beneficial in reducing joint pain and stiffness. Similarly, massage has been demonstrated to be beneficial in relieving joint pain associated with arthritis and other conditions. Both treatments aim to penetrate the muscles and reduce tension and inflammation, providing meaningful relief.
All of these natural remedies for joint pain can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and pain associated with joint issues. As always, consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional before starting any treatment for joint pain.