PTAG Blog

What to eat to help your body recover from ailments

It’s almost Thanksgiving and many are busy planning menus for their holiday feast. Listed below are a few guidelines on what types of food to consider adding to your grocery list if your body needs to recover from stress of ailments.

• Pineapple – Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple that helps to reduce inflammation in the body and act as a natural pain reliever. So, consider making a fruit salad to add to your meal.

• Blue, red and purple colored fruits and vegetables – They contain antioxidant flavonoids that may stop inflammation, tissue breakdown and improve circulation, while strengthening collagen reinforcement. It’s best to eat these and other fruits and veggies raw because these enzymes will break down during the cooking process.

• Calcium and Vitamin D & K – Calcium builds strong bones and prevents osteoporosis. Vitamins D and K help your body better absorb calcium, so that you can heal quicker. It is estimated that 70 percent of adults don’t get enough calcium in their daily diet. Incorporate leafy green vegetables and dairy products into your meals to ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to stay strong.

• Protein – Without the power of protein, your cells in your muscles would not only deteriorate, but also take longer to get healthy again. Stock up on lean proteins like chicken, turkey, pork and seafood. If you’re a vegetarian make sure to eat soy and low-fat dairy products.

• Water – Drinking sufficient amounts of water allows nutrients to travel easily through the body, helping organs function better, removing waste and protecting joints. You’ll move better if you stick to water.

Two more surprise food to add to your shopping list if your body’s needs some additional TLC:

• Ginger – Ginger is a healthcare secret that dates back to ancient times in Asian regions. People use it every day to improve digestion and relieve headaches, nausea and even the flu! Ginger also helps to reduce exercise-induced muscle pain. If your body is achy or you’re feeling under-the-weather, turn to ginger tea or candied ginger for a sweet snack.

• Caffeine –If you are making sure that calcium is a staple in your diet, caffeinated products like teas, coffees and energy drinks have actually been proven to delay onset muscle pain after a rigorous workout.

After you digest from your holiday feast and if your body is still experiencing discomfort, try relaxing your muscles with a heat wrap or a warm towel rolled around the suffering area, and then stretch those muscles out. The heat will loosen your muscles and reduce the pain. If your pain continues, be sure to consult a physical therapist who cannot only help relieve your pain, but also help you to understand why you are experiencing it. Staying active is always the best way to ensure your body remains at peak condition, so remember to exercise regularly to reduce your risk of future injuries or ailments.

These tips are meant to educate you, not provide a nutritional cure for ailments. Make sure to consult a medical doctor before drastically changing your diet in any way.