I picked up an Energy Times the other day and glanced at an article called “Eating to Heal” by Linda Melone. The article sparked my interest because my left knee and hamstring are bothering me.
My knee has a dull ache and my hamstring feels strained from kickboxing. My chiropractic treatments are helping. But I need something more to help my leg to heal faster.
That’s why I picked up this article. I read that it takes only minutes after an injury for your body to react.
An injury alerts your body’s immune system to send white blood cells to the area that is damage. The white blood cells heal the damaged area.
Natural Process
Mary Shackelton, MPH, ND, a naturopathic physician who practices in Boulder, Colorado, says in the article that resulting inflammation and swelling is a natural part of the healing process.
It’s excessive inflammation that may actually impair healing and cause unnecessary pain. Now, my knee and hamstring are not swollen or excessively inflamed.
I am still playing racquetball and taking it easy in kickboxing. I believe that if I started eating food that healed the body, my leg would be positively affected.
I found out that several nutrients act as effective anti-inflammatories. Bromelian is one of them. Bromelian is an enzyme found in the fruit and stem of the pineapple.
It has been proven that this enzyme reduces swelling, bruising and pain. If you have ever been hit by a racquetball, an enzyme that reduces bruising and pain is something to take notice.
Enzyme Heals
Bromelian functions as a digestive aid. If you take it on an empty stomach, bromelian works as an anti-inflammatory. Shackelton recommends taking 500 milligrams four times a day.
You should check with a practitioner when designing an injury-recovery supplementation plan. I need to tell you this for your own good.
But if you decide otherwise, that is your choice. Particularly if you are taking medications or remedies of any kind, you need to consult with an authority.
Bromelain, as an example, enhances the absorption of antibiotics and both prescription and herbal sedatives.
Omegas Heal
Salmon is by far the most delicious anti-inflammatory food. It is great for your body even if you are not injured.
The omega-3 fatty acids it contains are found in fatty fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel. You can even find them in dark leafy greens, flax seeds and some vegetable oils.
They facilitate proper wound healing. Taking fish oils means you need to make sure your body is getting enough zinc and vitamin D. These supplements are essential to healing the body.
Foods to Avoid
Another aspect to consider if you want to speed your body’s healing process is to avoid foods that slow the process down. Animal fat helps increase inflammation in the body. The fat contains arachidonic acid, known for promoting inflammation.
It’s also a smart idea to avoid alcohol, white flour, sugar and caffeine. These foods are known to promote inflammation. Giving up coffee is a tough one for me. I don’t think I can. I will follow the recommendations. Hopefully my leg will do better anyway.