The majority of us, when in pain automatically reach for Tylenol, Aleve, Ibuprofen, or some other over the counter drug store remedy in the NSAID family. While they do help short term to alleviate pain and swelling, they also have the non wanted side effect of slowing down the healing process and may have side effects, especially when used repeatedly or chronically over time. These side effects can range from mild to severe and can include stomach irritation, bleeding ulcers and even death!

Natural remedies work with the body rather than against it. Here are a few ideas to try.

Turmeric - Studies have shown that turmeric contains compounds that can reduce inflammation and has been used to treat infections, cold and even wounds.

It comes in swallowable capsules as well as in spice form to sprinkle on and add to your food.

Both delivery methods work well.

Black Pepper (which works wonders in conjunction with Turmeric) - Black pepper is a wonderful anti-inflammatory as well as holding the properties of being an antioxidant and antibacterial.

Cloves - Though research is still giving mixed reviews, cloves have been touted as an anti-inflammatory especially useful for dental and mouth issues. Make sure if you are using clove oil to mix it with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut before applying to the inside of your mouth on gum areas. It can be very hot on its own.

Garlic - Ah, good old garlic. Fresh is always best. As well as anti-inflammatory it is a very powerful natural antibiotic!

Cinnamon - Cinnamon can help to ease swelling and inflammation. Sprinkle on coffee, tea, cereal, oatmeal or take by capsule.

Cayenne pepper - They contain capsaicinoids giving them anti-inflammatory super powers. They have been used to boost health since ancient times!

Plant Enzymes - when taken on an empty stomach also work phenomenally well as anti-inflammatories and help with pain and swelling.

Along with adding these spices to your vitamin protocol changing up your diet to include some amazingly powerful anti-inflammatory foods can help drastically as well. Adding these into your normal eating routine can help boost your health and well being.

Top anti-inflammatory foods recommended are:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Beets
• Celery
• Broccoli
• Berries
• Salmon
• Pineapple
• Coconut Oil
• Bone broth
• Chia Seeds
• Flax Seeds
• Walnuts

So… If there are foods that are ANTI inflammation - are there foods that are inflammatory?

YES

If you are already having inflammation and pain issues you would do best to stay away from eating refined sugars, refined grains, processed foods and artificial sweeteners.

Food is medicine. What you eat greatly affects how your body functions and how you feel. If you are not feeling your best Nutrition Specialists of Florida can help you by giving you personalized guidance on what to eat, what to avoid, supplementation and detoxification to give you the very best possible quality of life outcome. Give us a call ay 239-947-1177 or visit us online by going to www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com.