Most of us have an “Achilles’ heel” or “hot spot” with regard to our health—an area of the body that is more vulnerable to pain or debility, particularly when we are stressed or ill. Here are several such areas—and my advice on how to keep them as healthy as possible…
- Back. For people who may have had a fall, sports injury or car accident—even if it was years ago—back pain can be a common vulnerability. What helps: Pay attention to early warning signs—a little tightness in the morning…or a faint grip in the back when you walk. Start stretching (for example, lift your arms overhead and do gentle forward and sideways bending), and rub arnica oil or cream, a very effective anti-inflammatory, on the sore spot. In addition, at the first sign of trouble, consider also using the healing anti-inflammatory herbs boswellia and turmeric for several days (follow dosing instructions on the label).
- Bowels. Diarrhea, stomach pain and indigestion can be another Achilles’ health heel—especially for anyone with diverticulitis or other digestive issues. At the first hint of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, eat light, easy-to-digest foods, including broth, steamed vegetables, fish, roasted chicken, applesauce, soft-boiled eggs and toast. Drinking peppermint, spearmint or chamomile tea between meals can calm your GI tract.* A daily probiotic supplement will also help by keeping the bowel flora balanced.
- Head. Headaches are more frequent in people who have had head injuries, meningitis, neck and shoulder injuries or concussion. The brain seems to “remember” a wound, and as stress or inflammation increases in the body, pain flares in the head. If your health hot spot is your head, consider these steps: First, keep your neck and shoulders limber by doing neck and shoulder stretches when you wake up and at midday. (Consult a physical therapist or massage professional for specific advice.) Second, when you feel tension building in your neck, ice the back of it for five minutes once an hour for several hours—this will reduce inflammation and muscle tension, hopefully warding off a headache. Third, be sure you’re drinking enough water. Finally, investigate food allergies, which often go undetected. Start by keeping a journal to see if your headaches seem to be tied to certain foods. You can also consult a naturopathic physician about getting tested for food allergies.
- Mouth. Canker sores are a common vulnerability—especially in people with poor immune function. These irritating mouth ulcerations are often triggered by stress…excess sugar consumption…dental procedures…or a high-acid meal. What I recommend: Licorice root—it is soothing and heals the membrane in the mouth. In some people, it can raise blood pressure, so opt for deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)—the ingredient that can cause blood pressure problems has been removed. It’s available in lozenges that are dissolved in the mouth…or in a tincture. For canker sores, swish and swallow a mixture of 60 drops in water four times a day away from meals until the problem clears up.
*Avoid mint teas if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), since mint can trigger acid reflux.
