7 Pains Fighting Foods

It's a normal process that is designed to help the body recover, which causes the occasional ache or pain. In small doses, this is fine. But if you're constantly putting your body under stress either from work, illness, or even exercises, your body flips into protection mode. The inflammation that's meant to protect you
instead causes your body to fight against itself. The system breaks down, and you become more vulnerable to injury or even disease.

But all hope is not lost. The process of healing your body can be improved with several small, simple changes. For example, many foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can alleviate pain and swelling, and help protect your body.

The following can help relief pains in the body

Cinnamon
Once considered more precious than gold, cinnamon is one of the world's oldest and most coveted spices. Research has shown that cinnamon not only reduces inflammation but also fights bacteria, assists with blood sugar control, and enhances brain function. Sprinkle cinnamon over yogurt, cereal, or oatmeal, or add it to a smoothie or a glass of low-fat milk.

Ginger
This flavorful root is used in everything from soda to stir-fries. Ginger contains several anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, which may relieve joint pain, prevent free radical damage, protect against colorectal cancer, and increase immunity. Ginger is also a natural anti-emetic, often used to alleviate motion sickness and morning sickness. Steep a couple of slices of ginger in hot water for ginger tea or blend it with soy sauce to top a stir-fried dish.

Onions
Onions are packed with sulfur-containing containing compounds, which are responsible for their pungent odor and associated with improved health. These widely-used and versatile vegetables are believed to inhibit inflammation and linked to everything from cholesterol reduction to cancer prevention. Try using onions as a base for soups, sauces, and stir-fries. Other foods with the same benefits include garlic, leeks, and chives.

Walnuts
Walnuts are one of the healthiest nuts you can eat. They're loaded with anti-inflammatory, heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids and provide more antioxidants than pecans, peanuts, almonds, macadamias, cashews, and hazelnuts. Walnuts are also a great source of protein and fibre. Top yogurt or salad with a handful of walnuts or eat raw walnuts as a snack.

Pineapple
This tropical yellow fruit contains the enzyme bromelain, which is helpful in treating muscle injuries like sprains and strains. According to a study in the journal Inflammatory Bowel Disease, this enzyme may also help to improve digestion along with aches and pains associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Add pineapple to a smoothie or salad to help improve your body's tweaks and twinges.

Carrots
Colorful orange carrots are rich in carotenoids, a group of phytochemicals known to help protect cells from free radicals and boost immunity. They also help regulate inflammation, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Add carrots to your salad or cook them as a side dish for any meal. Other carotenoid-rich foods include apricots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, and pumpkin.

Dark, leafy greens or (Vegetables)
Dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with flavonoids, a phytonutrient that boost heart health and may help ward off cancer. According to the Alzheimer's Association, flavonoid-rich foods may also reduce inflammation in the brain, possibly slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Eat a spinach salad a few days a week for a powerful punch of flavonoids. Other good sources are soybeans, berries, tea, or even a glass of wine.