It’s cold out there. We’re all shuffling along the ice, tensing our muscles, hoping we stay upright. Chances are, we’re going to experience more-than-usual aches and pains. But, whether joint pain is new to you, or if you’ve been suffering for a long time, we’ve got some tips for you!
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation and pain often go hand in hand. Whether you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or just run-of-the-mill joint pain, reducing inflammation can go a long way to help you reduce pain.
Choosing more green foods, whole grains, and nutrient-rich veggies like beets can help reduce inflammation. As can adding more foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids like salmon, chia, and walnuts. (We’ll discuss those more below)
One of the best natural anti-inflammatories on the market is curcumin. Curcumin, as you may know, is the active ingredient in turmeric. While including turmeric in your diet is a great place to start, a curcumin supplement will have a much stronger effect. Not only is the curcumin more bioavailable (easily absorbed) in supplement form, you’ll be getting a much higher dose. (Turmeric is only about 2-3% curcumin, by weight)
Increase Omega 3s
Omega 3s are important for joint health, not only because they are anti-inflammatory, but because they provide important cushioning for the joints. Literally every cell in our bodies requires fat to function. It forms the wall around cells, the protective casing around nerves, and yes, that cushion that keeps our bones from rubbing on each other.
If you’re not a big eater of fish, you might consider supplementing. Our Progressive line features high-potency, high-quality fish oils that will help you reduce joint pain and increase joint cushioning.
Targeted Nutrients
There are certain nutrients that are FAMOUS for their participation in joint health. Glucosamine & MSM are fantastic for relief of joint pain. Glucosamine is difficult to get from food (it’s mostly found in things like lobster shells), so you may know it best as a supplement. Bone broth, however, is full of glucosamine and chondrointin. As a bonus, it is easy to add to your diet. Bone broth is also full of collagen, which can help you build connective tissue, too.
Less commonly associated with joint health is magnesium. But magnesium is a crucial component of bone health, and is important for keeping your muscles moving well. You can find magnesium in foods like nuts & seeds, leafy greens, and grains. Alternately, you can take it in supplement form, or added to a bath as Epsom salts.
Topical Joint Pain Relief
If you’re looking for something more hands-on, we’ve got that, too. Orange Naturals Joint Pain cream has become a favourite among Danforth-Easters. Its purpose? “To relieve joint pain, swelling, and stiffness from arthritis or minor sprains and strains.” In a beeswax and shea butter base, it contains a blend of homeopathics. Arnica features most prominently, as it is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
You can use it safely on yourself, or on children of all ages. Apply it as often as you like.
Do you have a favourite natural remedy for joint pain? Let us know in the comments!
About The Author:
Kelly Boaz, CNP
Kelly is a holistic nutritionist, specializing in eating disorder recovery and food freedom. She is also a public speaker (TEDx King St. West, TDSB) and a writer. Learn more about Kelly, and about booking private consultations at kellyboaz.com Twitter: @kelly_boaz Facebook: /KellyBoazDotCom