According to a recent piece in Running Times Magazine, there is a growing concern about the overuse of anti-inflammatory OTC medications by athletes. Physician and medical acupuncturist Tom Etges, explains that "anti-inflammatory medications can, over time, interrupt the bodies natural healing process and can cause a false sense of relief, making you more ready to challenge yourself too soon before you have fully recovered and are ready for yet another heavy workout. "The body is smarter than we give it credit for," says Etges, "and up to a point, it will naturally repair damage...if you let it."
The alternative? Instead of forcing out potentially helpful inflammation with drugs, help your body do this work naturally by:
1) Drinking plenty of water
2) Elevating your legs above your heart for a few minutes whenever you get a chance
3) Taking an ice bath (yikes)
4) Consuming more anti-inflammatory foods like whole grains, healthy fats (avocados and nuts), beans, leafy greens and wild-caught fish.
