Monday, November 29, 2010

No Aspirin Needed

From Running Times online

Fight Inflammation with Food

Maximize your diet to minimize NSAIDs use

By Jackie Dikos, R.D.

As featured in the Web Only issue of Running Times Magazine

Who wants to start or finish a run by downing pills? Sure, there are aspects of running that can hurt.  One might call an ultra event a journey in overcoming pain, soreness and inflammation. Even an easy 3-mile run can be a painful, daunting task when battling tendinitis, muscle strain or a generally aching body.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, are used to ease pain and inflammation, so it would only make sense to utilize them when we intentionally push the body to the point of pain and inflammation, right? Not so fast. The body may adapt better to training when left to heal without the use of anti-inflammatories; minimizing their use allows runners to listen to warning signs and adjust training with a clearer perspective. 

Taking ibuprofen before an ultra can actually increase oxidative stress on the body by reducing the kidneys’ ability to manage the by-products of a long and demanding endurance crusade. Pre-race consumption of NSAIDs can also contribute to electrolyte imbalances, which can have devastating effects during distance events.

Dietary adjustments provide the healthiest alternative to popping anti-inflammatory medications. Consider some of the following tips to reduce inflammation naturally.

Read on here.

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