Q. I was crippled with osteoarthritis in the spine and pelvis, along with bursitis in the shoulders that no medication could help. In desperation, I used the Mediterranean diet as a basis for foods and supplements to fight inflammation. I cut out foods that caused inflammation; stopped taking anti-inflammatory drugs; and, after three weeks, was free of all pain and able to move comfortably. All this information I gained from reading Best Choices from the People’s Pharmacy.
Now, at sixty-three years of age, I am able to touch my toes without bending my knees; squat; kneel; and run short distances without discomfort. These are things I have not been able to do since I was eighteen!
A. We’re delighted that anti-inflammatory foods and supplements have made such a difference for you. NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen help some people, but they can cause stomach irritation, fluid retention, high blood pressure and kidney damage.
Alternatives such as turmeric, tart cherries, fish, boswellia, gelatin, pomegranate juice or gin-soaked raisins have few side effects and do appear to provide relief from inflammation. Anyone who would like to learn more about the book you read will find information at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Since you weren’t getting benefit from your drugs, it didn’t make sense to continue to risk possible side effects, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
