HEALTH INFO - 5 Foods that Fight Pain

5 Foods that Fight Pain

By Woman s Day | Healthy Living – Fri, Feb 14, 2014 2:01 AM MYT

pain fighting foodsBy Joy Bauer, RD

Before you dash to the medicine cabinet to treat your stiff joints, arthritis or back pain, try the pantry or fridge. Feeling better is much easier than you think. Here, I've handpicked five of the most powerful pain-suppressing foods that should be on your shopping list. Photo by Getty Images

1. Red Bell Peppers
A bell pepper has twice the vitamin C of an orange-and C is one of the nutrients most responsible for the health of collagen (connective tissue that aids in joint flexibility). Some research suggests that people who don't get enough vitamin C may have a greater risk of developing certain kinds of arthritis. Bonus: Red bell peppers also contain beta-cryptoxanthin, a compound that helps reduce pain.
Food Rx: Put diced peppers in omelets and salads, or dunk slices in hummus.

Related: Learn about 8 calming foods that ease stress. 

2. Sweet Potatoes The bright orange color comes from beta-carotene, a strong antioxidant that fights the cell-damaging molecules called free radicals released by your body.
Food Rx: Slice and roast in the oven for a side dish, or mash and mix into pancake batter.

3. Ginger The flavorful root contains chemicals that work similarly to some anti-inflammatory medications, and both the fresh and ground versions offer ingredients with feel-good perks.
Food Rx: Make a warm drink by steeping a few slices of ginger in hot water for 5 minutes. Optional: Add 1 tsp honey.

Related: Discover foods that keep you full longer. 

4. Turmeric Studies have shown that the mustard-yellow spice, which contains an anti-swelling compound called curcumin, may help relieve aches by lowering inflammatory chemicals circulating in the body. If you don't like the taste of turmeric, ask your doctor about curcumin capsules (available at most health-food stores).
Food Rx: Sprinkle turmeric powder into soups and stews, or add a pinch to chicken or vegetables while cooking for a flavor boost.

Related: Check out the 6 best foods for sensitive stomachs. 

5. Salmon Thanks to the hearty dose of omega-3 fats, eating salmon can help decrease inflammation by suppressing the production of enzymes that harm cartilage. In fact, multiple studies have shown that a diet rich in omega-3s can lead to less joint swelling and stiffness. Fresh salmon is great, but canned works fine too. 

Food Rx: For a simple lunch, mash a can of wild salmon with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Mix in chickpeas, chopped red bell pepper and minced onion.