Though it may be hard to believe–especially when we’re experiencing it ourselves–evidence shows that some foods are linked to pain relief. Readers Digest described three foods in particular that folks may reach for when aches can’t be ignored. The last one, in particular, may surprise you–it did me–and should not be recommended but does help explain the terrible obesity and diabetes epidemic that this country currently faces.

Here is an except:

Cherries. Anthocyanins, which give tart cherries their deep red color, have anti-inflammatory properties similar to those in aspirin, says Muraleedharan Nair, PhD, a food-safety researcher at Michigan State University. The benefit hasn’t yet been studied in humans, so we don’t know the optimal doses, but barring any health problems, such as diabetes or acid indigestion, why not pick a few berries this summer? (Raspberries and, to a lesser extent, strawberries also contain pain-fighting anthocyanins.)

Soy. It may help relieve some osteoarthritis pain. In a study of 135 men and women, those who took 40 grams of soy protein a day for three months improved their range of motion and reported fewer aches. Men saw the most benefit. It’s still not clear exactly how soy helps, but the isoflavones are thought to have anti-inflammatory effects, says Srinivasa N. Raja, MD, a pain-management specialist at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Caveat: You’d have to eat a ridiculous amount of edamame to reach 40 grams a day, so try adding soy protein powder to shakes.

Sugar. The sweet stuff can reduce the perception of pain, especially in children. Studies show when we consume sugar — sucrose, better known as table sugar, in particular — we hurt less. It seems to enhance our body’s natural pain-relief system. But we all know the unhealthy effects of too much sugar, including an expanding waistline, so make sure you don’t overindulge with this tasty sweetener.

You may read the article in it’s entirety here.


Explore other posts about: , , ,