While many of us enjoy playing and exercising outdoors during the warm weather, keep in mind that it does have its downfalls. For a lot of people with a scrape, strain, or muscle discomfort, the first impulse is to reach for a pain-decreasing drug. Although pain relievers offer short-term relief, you can count on needing another dose in 4-6 hours from then. These natural supplements ease injury-related inflammation and pain, while increasing the healing time:
Omega-3s
Usually obtained from fish or algae, Omega-3s act as precursors to Prostaglandin E3, one of the body’s most potent anti-inflammatory compounds. Research shows the key omega-3s—Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)—also fight inflammation and pain.
Dose: 600–2,000 mg of EPA and DHA combined. 
Gamma-Linolenic Acid Although technically an Omega-6 fatty acid, plant-derived Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) oil behaves more like an Omega-3. It’s a precursor to Prostaglandin E1, an anti-inflammatory compound made by the body. Some studies have found that GLA lessens Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms. Dose: 300–1,500 mg daily.
Curcumin
A Turmeric-Root extract, Curcumin blocks several of the body’s inflammation-promoting compounds.
Dose: 500–2,000 mg daily
Vitamin C
This vitamin is essential to make collagen, a protein found in skin, muscle, cartilage, and bone—the tissues that tend to get damaged when exercising. Extra vitamin C encourages healing.
Dose: 1,000 mg one to three times daily.
Vitamin D
Just because the sun is out doesn’t mean your body is making enough vitamin D, especially if you use sunscreen or cover up with clothes when in the sun. Low vitamin D levels are strongly associated with chronic pain, especially back and nerve pain.
Dose: 2,000 mg daily
Pycnogenol
This patented extract of French maritime pine bark contains 40 antioxidants and anti-inflammatory constituents, mostly polyphenols and flavonoids. One study found that it reduced pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis. Pycnogenol blocks the activity of several inflammation-promoting substances, including the COX-2 enzyme.
Dose: At least 30 mg three times daily.
All my best,
Stefani Thionnet
Stay focused and never give up!
