Treating pain is one of the most persistent and daunting challenges in the history of medicine. Current research estimates that chronic pain affects anywhere between 20 to 50 percent of Americans. Not surprisingly, a whopping 83% of those experiencing chronic pain state that their quality of life would greatly improve if they were better able to manage it.
At B12 LOVE, we help clients manage pain using a Naturopathic approach, which addresses the root cause of pain and supports the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. Alleviating pain involves many different considerations and is not a one-size-fits-all journey, but research has shown that a combination of the right nutrients and lifestyle factors can enhance healing and build resilience*.
Address Inflammation
In short-lived, infrequent episodes, inflammation is a healthy, normal response to toxic agents and injuries. However, chronic inflammation – due to continual exposure to environmental or endogenous toxins, poor habits (i.e. smoking), stress, unresolved injuries, food sensitivities etc. – can be an underlying cause of pain and illness.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain temporarily, but can damage the gut lining and have other negative side effects. Along with lifestyle changes and minimizing exposure to toxins, incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients into your wellness regimen can have immense benefits for pain relief.
(Available at all B12 LOVE Lounge locations)
- Taurine – Various studies show that the amino acid taurine acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
- Magnesium – Both animal and in vitro studies have shown that magnesium deficiency induces increased inflammation and an increased risk for chronic disease.
- Carnitine – L-carnitine is known to lower certain biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. This makes it particularly important for heart and brain function, muscle movement, and removing unwanted toxins from our bodies.
- Co-Q10 – CoQ10 is a fat-soluble, “vitamin-like” substance and powerful antioxidant that is naturally produced in the body. It is essential for cell growth, protects us against damage from toxic free radicals, and also plays a crucial role in mitochondrial function and energy production.
- Curcumin – Curcumin is what gives turmeric its yellowish color, and it holds immense anti-inflammatory properties.
- Quercetin – Quercetin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that might help reduce swelling, kill cancer cells, control blood sugar, and help prevent heart disease.
Treat yourself to B12 LOVE’s “Inflammation Buster” injection or “Inflamed Athlete” IV drip for a super dose of anti-inflammatory nutrients straight into your body’s cells.
Support Your Immune System
When it comes to the human immune system, balance is key. An overactive or underactive immune system can contribute to chronic inflammation and pain. Check out our blog post titled “7 Nutrients to Boost Your Immune System” to learn more.
Manage Stress & Anxiety
Pain and stress are two separate processes, yet they often coincide and share similar physiological characteristics. People get trapped in a vicious cycle where chronic pain and chronic stress exacerbate each other, and eventually cause irreversible damage.
Take time to formulate a healthy “stress strategy”. It could be as simple as minimizing screen time or learning a few breathing techniques. Eventually, your stress strategy will become a habit and you won’t even have to think about it. You can also use the power of various nutrients to help manage stress and anxiety by calming the nervous system and restoring balance.
Get More Sleep
Sleep is as essential as food and water for health and healing. Studies show that short sleep times, fragmented sleep, and poor sleep quality can cause heightened sensitivity to pain. People with sleep problems also appear to be at a higher risk of developing conditions like fibromyalgia and migraines.
Instead of over-the-counter sleeping aids, try B12 LOVE’s “Sleep Like A Baby” injection. This calming nutrient shot contains vitamin B12, taurine, and MIC or B6 to help improve the quality of sleep and dreaming.
Spend Time with Mother Nature
Spending time in nature may not seem like an obvious part of a health plan, but even a small amount of time spent outdoors can enhance healing. For example, there is evidence that forest therapy and exercising in green spaces are associated with better pain outcomes.
Move Your Body
For many years, chronic pain treatment recommendations called for rest and inactivity (and certainly, during episodes of acute pain that may be necessary). However, research shows that exercise may have specific benefits in reducing the severity of chronic pain, in addition to the general benefits of improved overall physical and mental health. We recommend doing an injection or IV drip of NAD+ to elevate your energy and focus before exercising.
Want to create a personalized healing plan? Book a consultation with one of our licensed Naturopathic Doctors at select B12 LOVE Lounge locations.
*Always consult your primary care provider before making any changes to your health routine.
