If you’re suffering from a fever or arthritis pain, anti-inflammatories can provide welcome relief. But this might not be entirely true for your heart. Researcher Aldrin Gomes of the University of California, Davis found that the chronic use of the anti-inflammatories known as NSAIDs can actually damage heart cells by producing chemically reactive molecules.

"These NSAIDs were actually inducing something called reactive oxygen species, stuff that our body produces naturally but in small amounts."

An excess of molecules can prevent the breakdown of harmful proteins that can build up and cause cardiac cell death. While not all NSAIDs may harm heart tissue, Gomes encourages seeking natural alternatives, like turmeric paste or tart cherries.

"Part of what we’re doing is outreach– trying to get the word out to people that they shouldn’t be using NSAIDs as a regular treatment unless it’s really, absolutely necessary. NSAIDs also has very well-known gastrointestinal problems. So we have to be careful how much we take, when we take it."