Nutrition and Pain

A cohesive and integrated program provides the best results in relieving pain.

Chronic pain patients suffer from pain that is multi-layered. Therefore, a cohesive and integrated program provides patients with the best results in relieving their pain.

One important and easy-to-implement step to pain relief is a change to your diet, as there are key foods that will aid in the alleviation of inflammation and other pain symptoms. While no food can cure your pain, there has been research done on how to get medicinal benefits from the food we eat.

In the recent years, it has become apparent that a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can have many benefits. Some of those benefits include lowering bad cholesterol and increasing brain function. Omega-3 also has an affect on inflammation in the body.

Adding Omega-3s to your diet may be easier than you may realize. While there is an array of foods naturally containing Omega-3 fatty acids, the easiest way to integrate it into your daily foods is through ground flax seed. The ground seeds have a nutty taste, and can be sprinkled on cereals or salads or mixed into oatmeal or yogurt. The seeds, however, must be ground; if left whole, their dietary benefits will not be absorbed by the body.

Fish that live in cold waters—especially salmon and tuna—are also good sources of Omega-3s. Salmon is extremely versatile, and can be made in a variety of ways. Other excellent anti-inflammatory foods include chickpeas, green beans, citrus fruits, strawberries, garlic, almonds, and mint. As you can see, the list is extensive.

While a diet featuring pain relieving foods may help immensely, there is no food that can cure your pain completely. Arizona Pain Specialists is another step in the right direction for relief from chronic pain. An individualized treatment plan is created specifically for each patient based on pain and medical history.

Grilled or Broiled Salmon

4 salmon steaks or fillets (each approximately 6 oz)
Juice of 2 large lemons
Zest of 1 large lemon
Approximately 4 tablespoons of olive oil
Approximately 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Fresh dill weed (dried dill can be used if fresh can not be found)
Approximately 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Whisk all ingredients (except the salmon) together. Place salmon in a shallow dish. Pour whisked mixture over salmon and marinate for at least 2 hours in refrigerator. Grill or broil, brushing the fish with the marinade. Cook until fish has reached 140 degrees internal temperature, or until it flakes apart easily. Enjoy with fresh steamed broccoli and garden salad.

Strawberries with Balsamic Vinegar

Strawberries with balsamic vinegar and black pepper may seem odd. However, you’ll find that the combination of mildly sweet balsamic vinegar and the spice of the black pepper brings out the flavor and redness of the strawberries more distinctly that sugar alone.

2 tablespoons sugar
5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 pints (4 cups) ripe strawberries, washed, stemmed and quartered
Optional garnish (chocolate sauce, whipped cream, chopped nuts)

Whisk all but the strawberries together. Then gently stir in strawberries and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Serve with desired garnish.