2. Perform an easy workout. 

Believe it or not, doing a light version of the exercises that made you sore in the first place will abbreviate your discomfort, by stimulating blood flow and increasing circulation. This speeds removal of pain-producing inflammatory substances. Be sure to start your workouts slowly and go light with the weights, until you’ve warmed up properly.

3. Take vitamin C. 

Consuming vitamin C helps reduce muscle soreness two ways. First, it helps speed removal of lactic acid and other metabolic waste materials produced during, and immediately following, exercise. Vitamin C also tempers muscle discomfort by increasing collagen production. Collagen is protein that is involved in tissue repair. It makes up about 30 percent of the body’s protein content and acts like a type of glue that holds cells together.

I recommend taking Reacta-C, two to three times a day, splitting the dosage up. Caution … don’t take vitamin C within an hour of taking calcium, because when combined in your stomach will neutralize each other, plus check with your doctor before starting a vitamin C regimen.

4. Try curcumin. 

Curcumin is the essential curcuminoid of the spice turmeric, and is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Some research indicates curcumin, like NSAIDs, inhibits chemicals that increase inflammation.

Diet or exercise question? Email me at dwcrocker77@gmail.com or visit fitness4yourlife.org. David Crocker of Landrum has been a nutritionist and master personal trainer for 27 years. He served as strength director of the Spartanburg Y.M.C.A., head strength coach for the USC-Spartanburg baseball team, S.C. state champion girls gymnastic team, and the Converse college equestrian team. He was a water safety consultant to the United States Marine Corps, lead trainer for L.H. Fields modeling agency, and taught four semesters at USC-Union. David was also a regular guest of the Pam Stone radio show.