Drug-Free Post-Workout Pain Relief

By Al Sears, MD

Back when I was in college, caffeine was by far the most-used performance-enhancing drug. The locker room buzz claimed that it not only made exertion feel easier but also helped ease the aches and pains athletes get after competition. All these years later, a new study indicates that the guys were on to something not yet known by doctors.

Researchers from the University of Georgia recently discovered that caffeine in a dose equivalent to two cups of coffee can cut post-gym muscle pain. Their findings - published in The Journal of Pain - showed that caffeine lowered pain by as much as 48 percent. Caffeine actually proved more effective than the common pain relievers naproxen (Aleve), aspirin, and ibuprofen (Advil).

I’m not telling you to down cup after cup of coffee after a workout. Always use caffeine in moderation. Too much can produce side effects like jitteriness or even heart palpitations. And keep in mind that the University of Georgia study also found that those who drank coffee regularly didn’t get as much pain relief as those who rarely had caffeinated drinks.

If you don’t tolerate caffeine well, here’s an alternative for you - without side effects or the risk of addiction: ribose. Taken before working out, this simple sugar reduces or prevents exercise-induced muscle cramping and soreness.

I recommend a dose of two to five grams of ribose. Just dissolve the pleasant-tasting powder in water. It has worked wonders for both my patients and me. You can find it at your local nutrition store. Of course, check with your doctor before starting any new health regimen.
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Overwhelming Proof That Natural Medicine Works

By Jon Herring, Guest editor, Total Health Breakthroughs

In spite of the fact that many pharmaceutical drugs are just synthetic versions of healing compounds that are found in nature, there is a pervasive myth (no doubt fostered by the drug companies) that drugs have been proven to work, while natural remedies have not. Dr. Michael T. Murray, N.D., a professor of natural medicine and the author of more than 20 books, has compiled more than 50,000 scientific articles that prove the opposite is true. In his words:

"One of the great myths about natural medicines is that they are not scientific. The fact of the matter is that for most common illnesses there is greater support in the medical literature for a natural approach than there is for drugs or surgery."

So to maintain or improve your health, do what the pharmaceutical companies do when they develop a new drug: Look to nature. Not only will you find therapies that work, they will be safer and less expensive than their synthetic alternatives.
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These articles appear courtesy of Early to Rise’s Total Health Breakthroughs [Issue 07-13-07] which offers alternative solutions for mind, body and soul. For a complimentary subscription, visit http://www.totalhealthbreakthroughs.com