Nutrition Corner

The foods that we eat can influence the amount of pain that we feel. To reduce pain and inflammation, nutritional therapy in TCM recom-mends avoiding “damp” foods such as greasy, sweet and spicy foods, as well as dairy products.

Helpful foods to consider adding to your diet include:

GINGER: A natural anti-inflammatory. Make a tea with half a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger root and eight ounces of boiling water.
Steep for 10 to 15 minutes.

PINEAPPLE: Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, reduces inflammation.

CHERRIES: Cherries are an excellent source of nutrients that may help to reduce joint pain and inflammation related to arthritis.

FISH: Cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce pain and swelling as well as keep joints healthy.

TURMERIC: A natural anti-inflammatory. Take according to the supplement label and use as a cooking spice and tea whenever possible.