Tag: Inflammation

Effective Pain Relief for Chronic Conditions

September 26th, 2017 by Molly Carr, CRNP

chronic-painAs a holistic nurse practitioner and herbalist, I have worked with patients suffering with pain for 10 years. You are probably thinking what can herbal or alternative therapies do for effective pain relief for chronic or acute pain? Well, the doctor I worked for was probably thinking the same thing at first, but he took a risk and invited me to join the practice. He was a chronic pain specialist who treated all kinds of pain conditions including headaches, spinal and peripheral nerve pain, musculoskeletal pain, various types of inflammatory arthritis, abdominal and pelvic pain syndromes and pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, which is generalized pain in various soft tissues of the body. Continue reading “Effective Pain Relief for Chronic Conditions”

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Foods That Fight Pain: A Dietary Approach to Conquering Migraines, Backaches, and Joint Pain

July 6th, 2015 by Neal Barnard, MD, FACC

vegatable-marketIt’s normal to experience aches and pains every once in a while, but if the condition happens frequently, it can impair your quality of life. The good news is the root cause may live in your pantry, which means it is easy to fix: eliminate this trigger food from your diet, and stick with foods that fight pain.

Certain foods act as triggers for arthritis and migraines. At the same time, high-fat foods can increase inflammation and alter estrogen levels, affecting menstrual cramps, migraines, and even increasing the risk of certain forms of cancer.

High-fat foods also damage the arteries, creating blockages that reduce blood flow to the brain, heart, and spine. This explains why back pain is the most common form of pain and the leading cause of disability among American adults younger than age 45.

To determine if you have a dietary trigger for chronic pain, or just need an arterial makeover, consider a three-step intervention. Chances are you’ll be pain-free within months, with a clean bill of health. Continue reading “Foods That Fight Pain: A Dietary Approach to Conquering Migraines, Backaches, and Joint Pain”

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30-Day Self-Guided Whole Body Detox

January 14th, 2015 by Margo Gladding

asparagus-saladIf you have been struggling with trying to kick bad food habits, experiencing annoying symptoms, or simply want to feel better, then consider doing a whole body detox. This can be a great way to jump-start your health and reboot your system. Detoxifying or cleansing your body involves reducing your toxin intake while replenishing your system with healthy nutrients.

We have created a 30-day detox program that is specifically designed to help you cut your sugar and carb cravings, for good. Sugar and flour are two of the most addictive substances in our diet and are linked to so many of our chronic health problems. By eliminating these destructive foods, you will be promoting better health on so many levels – weight loss, brain health, hormone balance, energy, inflammation support, digestive wellness, and greater vitality.

Our detox program outlines key foods to avoid, healthy must-have foods, supplement recommendations, as well as helpful detox tips. Click here for the full 30-Day Self-Guided Whole Body Detox, or to download a PDF.  As a special bonus, our top four recommended products outlined in the detox protocol are on sale through February 4.

Photo from here, with thanks.

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Pain Series: A Natural Approach to Joint Pain

January 6th, 2015 by Paula Gallagher

joggersThe last topic in our pain series is joint pain. Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any part of the body where bones connect. Joint pain is a common complaint, and frequent causes include arthritis, gout, strains, and sprains. Common sites of joint pain include: knee, shoulder, hip, and wrist. In the absence of an injury, pain in one or more of your joints is often caused by inflammation or infection. Persistent pain that may occur after a viral infection requires a doctor’s attention. Joint pain symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Warmth in your joints

Diet and supplements are an integral part of managing joint pain.

Diet plays a critical role in regulating pain and is the foundation for good health. The foods you eat have the ability to trigger either pro-inflammatory chemicals or anti-inflammatory chemicals.

Pro-inflammatory foods increase pain, swelling, and cellular damage. An increase in inflammatory chemicals has been associated with most chronic diseases including joint pain, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and various cancers. Click here to learn about what foods to avoid. Continue reading “Pain Series: A Natural Approach to Joint Pain”

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Pain Series: A Natural Approach to Inflammation

December 29th, 2014 by Paula Gallagher

inflammationWhat is Inflammation?

Inflammation is a protective process that the body uses to fight infection and foreign substances such as viruses or bacteria. It is responsible for the swelling, redness, and pain associated with injuries. Other signs of acute inflammation include heat and loss of movement. Pain management is often an important part of addressing inflammation, which can become dangerous to your health if it is unresolved or becomes chronic. Taking a natural approach to inflammation can help.

What are the Causes of Inflammation?

Listed below are some of the most common causes of inflammation.

• Pathogens (germs) such as bacteria, viruses or fungi
• External injuries like scrapes or foreign objects
• Cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder
• Bronchitis, or inflammation of the bronchi
• Otitis media, a middle ear infection
• Dermatitis, a condition where skin is inflamed
• Arthritis, inflammation of the joints
• Food allergies/sensitivities
• Autoimmune diseases
Continue reading “Pain Series: A Natural Approach to Inflammation”

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Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
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  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
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    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
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    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
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    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
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  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
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  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
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