When your wrist gets sore, you don’t automatically think of food as a treatment. And maybe it’s not necessarily one, either. But it might be a preventative tool.
Managing inflammation is one of the ways to treat or prevent pain. Your diet plays a major role in inflammation in the body, and although eating a piece of fish or handful of blueberries might not diminish the pain after banging your wrist on the counter, they might help prevent painful arthritic flare-ups.
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There is some evidence to suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, may work to combat inflammatory arthritis and promote healthy joints.
Food, therefore, may reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of flare-ups.
But there is one catch: the foods must be consumed regularly. Having a handful of blueberries if your wrists lock up isn’t going to help. Instead, anti-inflammatory foods need to be featured regularly.
You’ll also want to avoid pro-inflammatory foods like sugary sweets and beverages, fried foods, and other processed foods that can lead to a strong immune response.
What are the foods that might help you? Most fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, and natural whole foods will help. But here is a list of some of the best.
Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries are dense sources of anti-inflammatory nutrition. One study showed that eating blueberries every day can boost cells associated with better immune function.
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Fatty Fish: Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are also closely associated with lower levels of inflammation. When omega-3s are consumed, they are broken down into compounds called “resolvins” and “protectins,” which have anti-inflammatory effects.
Data also shows they may reduce inflammatory proteins.
The best sources are salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, and anchovies.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
