Did you know that an estimated fifty million Americans deal with chronic pain? That’s around twenty percent of the population. Whether you’ve suffered a sports injury or recovering from an operation, plenty of options can help you manage your pain.
It can be tempting to take prescription painkillers, but they should only be used very short term, and unfortunately, not all pain is short-term. If you’re looking for natural, non-habit-forming ways to start feeling like yourself again, keep reading for the best supplements for pain relief and management.
1. Turmeric
If you’re a foodie or at-home chef, chances are you’re familiar with this South Asian spice. Turmeric is part of the ginger family, and aside from it being a delicious addition to food, it has been shown to help with chronic pain. Turmeric reduces inflammation, which can be a key component of pain issues.
Taking turmeric with black pepper is recommended to get max absorption of its healing properties. If you don’t love cooking with turmeric, try golden milk, a deliciously sweet beverage rich in turmeric.
2. CBD
CBD has gotten a lot of buzz over the last few years for a good reason – it works! The great thing about CBD is you can reap all the medicinal properties of THC without having any of the negative effects of marijuana use. Whether you opt for roll-on or topical CBD directly on the site of your pain or feel more comfortable with a tincture or gummy, there are many ways to use a CBD supplement.
In addition to pain relief, CBD has a calming effect, and some chronic pain sufferers deal with anxiety from the pain, so CBD stands out from other supplements for this reason.
3. Collagen
A significant portion of the population deals with pain resulting from joint issues and muscle soreness. Collagen has long been touted for its ability to reduce joint pain in people suffering. Collagen naturally occurs in the human body, but over time, our production wanes.
Additionally, when you are injured, a boost in collagen peptides can make all the difference in pain levels and healing times. Collagen powder supplements are tasteless and easily dissolve in smoothies, coffee, and even water.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
You may have grown up with a grandparent that swore by Cod liver oil and made you swallow yucky spoonfuls when you were under the weather. Not only are there significant immune system boosting benefits to Fish Oil (Omega-3 fatty acids), but there are pain relief aspects as well.
If you suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fish Oil is a must. Numerous studies show the benefits to RA sufferers by reducing inflammation, joint swelling, and tenderness.
5. Vitamin D
Studies have shown that low levels of Vitamin D can increase someone’s pain levels. Vitamin D is an essential part of overall health and well-being. With more people spending less time outdoors than ever, levels are at a historic low.
Of course, getting your Vitamin D from the sun is ideal, but when you’re dealing with pain, a supplement is key. While increasing Vitamin D levels isn’t a quick fix to your pain issues, it’s worth getting your levels in an optimum range to feel better long-term and stay that way.
6. Niacin
Niacin is a little-known supplement to the average person, but it can be a game-changer regarding chronic health concerns. Niacin or Vitamin B3 has other benefits besides helping with inflammation that causes pain. It has been shown to dramatically affect your cholesterol levels as well. This supplement is generally well tolerated and should be taken daily.
7. Melatonin
Most people are familiar with Melatonin when it comes to aiding a good night’s sleep, but it can also help with pain management. Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to help with painful conditions like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), migraines, and even Fibromyalgia. Since it can make you sleepy, it’s best to take it before a nap or bedtime or a low dose during the day.
Managing pain can feel like a full-time job for chronic sufferers. With the harmful side effects of prescription pain medicines, the supplements mentioned earlier can be a lifesaver you can feel safe taking. Of course, if you do not see results, it’s best to consult your GP to explore other options. Here’s to your health!
