Cherry Pickin’ for the Pain

One resounding message I hear from “seasoned” musicians (no food pun intended) is that after years of repetitive play their joints, muscles, and bones ache.  Arthritis can be the death of a musician and muscle fatigue can hinder performance. What if you could add something to your diet to help with pain and joint care?  Would you do it? It’s so simple and tasty I think you should consider it!

In my quest to find the fuel to keep musicians going I have sought out research regarding arthritis and joint pain. Interesting research is developing in 4 fabulous nutrition/food areas:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (found in fatty fish like salmon)
• Curcumin (aka, the spice turmeric found in Indian food)
• Ginger (the ingredient I often recommend for teas and found in Asian cuisines)
• Tart Cherries (I’m thinking you are familiar with this food)

Is there evidence, and I mean the science kind of evidence?  Yes, there are some studies, albeit still in the preliminary stages that show links with the above said foods to decrease arthritis and/or muscle pain.  The reason I feel comfortable with this is that it’s food we are talking about–not a magic pill or supplement that will cure your aches and pains and every other disease imaginable [sarcasm].   Here are some simple ways to recover and refuel your muscles:

• Drink 8-10 ounces of cherry juice after you perform
• During performance mix cherry juice with water
• Add dried tart cherries to your oatmeal or breakfast cereal
• Make a smoothie with frozen tart cherries
• Add ginger slices to water
• Add candied ginger to your oatmeal or smoothie
• Season your favorite chicken dish with turmeric–or just go out for Indian
• Choose to eat salmon, trout, or other types of fatty fish a couple times a week

You can even mix tart cherry juice with your favorite post-show cocktails! Some recipe ideas:

• Tito’s Vodka, Tart Cherry Juice, & a Wedge of Lime
• Tart Cherry Juice & Whiskey Sours
• Tart Cherry Juice, Coke Zero & Rum
• Sprite Zero (Randy), Tart Cherry Juice, & Lime

If you are looking for more great ways to recover with Tart Cherry Juice check out this great website for more information:

http://www.choosecherries.com/redrecovery/index.html

Happy Recovery,

The Roadie Nutritionist

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