Muscle Healing and Pain Relief

We often get asked about natural alternatives to antiinflammatory and pain relief medicines. Most often the pain is due to injury or arthritis. There are so many supplement choices, so decisions can be overwhelming. I thought we could include a summary of some main helpful considerations. As always, we consider food choices of every option first and then boost with supplements short or long term as you choose and need. So, yes think proteins and think antioxidants (veggies!) first, then...

Omega 3 Fish oil - The is no debating the benefits of omega 3 fish oil. The EPA portion is antiinflammatory while the DHA portion benefits the brain. Any amount of high quality Omega 3 you can consume will be of benefit ongoing.

Vitamin D - From the sun (without burning), fortified foods or supplements. Especially worth considering for autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Can help pain, metabolism, mood and immunity.

Curcumin (Turmeric) - I have worked curcumin with as an pain reliever/antiinflammatory for years, especially for those who caused stomach problems with antiinflammatory medicines while waiting for knee surgery etc. Now, special antiinflammatories are available on prescription that don't affect the stomach this way, but people are still looking for natural options. Curcumin has antioxidant properties too, so benefits the healing process. You can see why curcumin/turmeric smoothies, lattes and bliss balls are all the rage!

Collagen/Gelatin + Vitamin C - Collagen is the primary structural protein in connective tissues such as bone, tendon, ligament, and cartilage. I was personally dubious of oral collagen's instant popularity 10 years ago, because it seemed expensive and beauty inductry driven. Well, I've changed my tune when it comes to recovery, a protein source and then finding economical quality (not gimmick)  products. Collagen and vitamin C go hand in hand to helping stregthen muscle connective tissue. Yes, this may help beauty, but is also a handy tip for injury healing.