7 Foods For Muscle Soreness and Joint Pain

I’m sure you’ve experienced this.

After a tough, strenuous workout, you feel a ragged stiffness or painful soreness that limits your function and puts you in a not-so-pleasant mood.

And if you suffer from arthritis, this is likely a daily struggle.

But beyond regular physiotherapy treatment, medications, or (in the worst case) surgery – is there anything else that you could do to reduce joint and muscle pain?

There is something you can do.

And the solution has been hiding in your kitchen.

Did you know that you could also control your soreness and joint pain by switching up your diet?

7 Foods for Muscle & Joint Pain

1. Berries

Cherries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries all contain anthocyanins, an inflammation reducing compound. Berries not only help reduce inflammation but they contain many nutrients which help prevent diseases.

Inflammation – which is the body’s natural response to protecting bones and organs – is not necessarily a bad thing. It is, however, the source of discomfort when it comes to soreness and joint pain.

And berries will help reduce this pain due to their high concentration of anthocyanins.

2. Fish

Fish (like cod) contains plenty of healthy fats and is rich in Omega-3 acids, which is great for fighting inflammation. If you’re suffering from arthritis, then you may want to implement fish into your weekly diet as its effects have been proven to reduce pain in joints.

And if you’re not a fan of fish, then you could look into Omega-3 supplements which have a similar positive health benefit.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, which, according to Michigan University’s Department of Nutrition, is a unique molecule that could have a beneficial impact on managing chronic inflammatory-related joint disease. You could find turmeric primarily in Indian food.

While there is a lack of significant data on the subject, many joint-pain sufferers feel as though turmeric is great for managing pain caused by inflammation.

4. Leafy Greens

We all know that spinach, bok choy, kale and brussels sprouts are great for our overall health. But more importantly, they also have a great effect on those who experience sore muscles and joints.

These greens contain a property called sulforaphane, a compound which is known to block enzymes linked to joint destruction and inflammation.

So find a good recipe for broccoli, or make yourself some tasty kale chips for a delicious snack (and some relief from the pain).

5. Apples

You may have written off “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” as a silly (and meaningless) rhyme.

But what if it’s actually true?

Nowadays, there’s plenty of new research being conducted to study the correlation between apples and anti-inflammatory properties. And so far, many scientists have come to believe that quercetin, a compound found in apples, may help keep joint pain and soreness away. Apples also contain anthocyanin, the same property found in berries that is known to reduce inflammation.

So perhaps, an apple a day keeps the soreness away.

6. Onions

Like apples, onions contain quercetin.

And according to a study published in the medical journal Pharmacognosy Reviews, onions were successful in decreasing arthritis symptoms in mice. While more research is being conducted to see how humans react to onions – this is still a promising sign.

So next time you eat that delicious, greasy burger, make sure to add some extra onions, because they may reduce inflammation and help protect your joints.

7. Ginger

Ginger contains compounds called gingerols, inflammation-fighting molecules that are known to soothe sore muscles and limit pain for those suffering from osteoarthritis.

While research is still underway, scientists are already finding a link that ginger may reduce muscle pain by at least 25% if taken at a consistent, daily rate.

While we understand that ginger isn’t the most delicious food on the planet, perhaps consider taking ginger capsules as an alternative.

Are you still suffering from:

• Severe joint pain?
• Arthritis?
• Constant muscle soreness?

Do you want a personalized treatment plan to help improve your quality of life and restore your function?

Book an appointment with one of our Greater Toronto Area professionals or call (416) 431-4000.

Consultations are free and medical professionals will give you a high level of healthcare services you need and deserve.