Cooperative Living July 2024 - 7

HAPPY & HEALTHY
Slowing Pains
A nutritional approach for
easing chronic pain
by Vanessa LaFaso Stolarski, Contributing Columnist
S
ome people claim to be able
to predict the weather by joint
pain fl are-ups, but barometric
pressure isn't the only culprit and
medicine isn't always the only answer.
While medications may provide some
temporary relief, some come with
undesirable side eff ects. Fortunately, the
foods we eat can also play a powerful role
in reducing infl ammation and alleviating
chronic joint pain.
Infl ammation is a common trigger
for most chronic pain conditions. When
the body senses injury, it prompts the
release of fl uid. Th is system is a natural
mechanism designed to protect the
aff ected area from further damage.
Th e fl uid surrounds organs or joints
like a bubble until healing is complete.
However, just as any organic matter will
do when submerged in liquid for too
long, the tissue will eventually degrade
and break down. Th is is why prolonged
infl ammation is oſt en a catalyst to other
serious health conditions.
Understand the root cause of chronic
joint pain and harness the healing
power of nutrition with the following
strategies:
EMBRACE OMEGA-3S
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty
fi sh such as salmon and sardines, as
well as in plant sources like walnuts and
fl axseeds, are potent anti-infl ammatory
powerhouses. Th ese healthy fats help
regulate the body's anti-infl ammatory
response, which reduces swelling and
alleviates pain. Aim for 2,000-3,000 mg
daily.
LOAD UP ON ANTIOXIDANTS
Berries, turmeric and leafy greens like
mustard, beets or turnips can neutralize
harmful free radicals and combat
infl ammation. Th ese natural compounds
not only reduce infl ammation but also
protect against chronic diseases.
CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTS
While a well-balanced diet should
be the foundation of any antiinfl
ammatory approach, certain
supplements can provide additional
support. Curcumin, the active
compound in turmeric, has been shown
to have potent anti-infl ammatory
properties. Other supplements like fi sh
oil, ginger and bromelain (an enzyme
found in pineapples) may also help.
Remember, chronic pain
management is relative to the individual,
and nutrition is just one piece of the
puzzle. Consult with a healthcare
professional or registered dietitian to
develop a comprehensive plan tailored
to your specifi c needs and health
conditions.
*
LIMIT INFLAMMATORY FOODS
Nobody says you have to completely
eliminate french fries from your life, but
too much of a good thing can exacerbate
pain. Processed meats, fried foods and
sugary beverages are known to promote
infl ammation and should be limited.
STAY HYDRATED
Water helps fl ush out toxins and
supports the body's natural healing
process. Aim to drink at least eight
8-ounce glasses daily and incorporate
hydrating fruits and vegetables like
cucumbers, watermelon and tomatoes
into your diet.
co-opliving.com
Vanessa LaFaso Stolarski is a certifi ed
nutrition counselor, weightliſt ing coach,
life coach and stress-management specialist.
All health-related content and media provided by Cooperative
Living or its website(s) is created and published for informational
purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical
advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.
Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualifi ed
health professional with any questions you may have regarding
your health or a medical condition.
July 2024 * Cooperative Living * 5
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Cooperative Living July 2024

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