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7 Foods for Fighting Pain

For those with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic pain, finding relief can be hard. Experts say these anti-inflammatory foods may help you beat pain.

By Reader's Digest Editors
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1. Ginger

Ginger's been used for thousands of years to help with a variety of ailments from stomachaches to heart conditions. This anti-inflammatory add-in is excellent on a variety of foods, even tea.

Recipe to try: Sautéed Spinach with Ginger and Soy Sauce

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2. Sage

This anti-inflammatory herb has also been shown in some research to boost memory. Perfect in poultry dishes, sage has been used for centuries and contains flavonoids that help to reduce swelling. Recipe to try: Turkey Sausage Patties

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3. Coffee

One cup of black coffee can provide relief from headaches and provide more antioxidants than a serving of berries. Preliminary research has also shown that drinking coffee may reduce the risk of some cancers. Recipe to try: Coffee-Almond Mini Mousses

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4. Salmon

Filled with Omega-3s, salmon provides an excellent source of protein and antioxidants. The fatty acids from this fish can help to lubricate tight joints in the body. Recipe to try: Salmon with Polenta

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5. Green Tea

Used for centuries for a variety of medicinal purposes, green tea is an excellent source of polyphenols which may help to reduce free radicals in the body which can cause inflammation.

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6. Olive Oil

Here's a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient that's comparable to over the counter pain medications. A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil helps reduce the risk of strokes and some cancers.

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7. Cherries

Cherries help reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals in the body. These tart, sweet treats can also help to stop tissue inflammation. Recipe to try: Cinnamon-Roasted Pears with Cherries and Caramel Sauce

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Your Comments

  • slimblonde

    Amazingly to me, Cherries are strongly advised, as a matter of fact, in number one spot, is the best thing for gout. As far as I know it has worked. As a diabetic, I’ve been using canned, drained cherries in sugar free cherry jello as the best way to get my cherries and grow fingernails at a rapid pace. They are delicious.