Foods that Reduce Hand Swelling
Inflammation can be both good and bad. On one hand, it helps your body defend itself from infection and injury. On the other hand, chronic inflammation can lead to disease. Stress, low activity levels, and foods that cause inflammation can make this risk even greater.
Studies suggest that some foods can help decrease chronic inflammation. Fortunately, the following foods are not only tasty, but they have anti-inflammatory properties to ease the ache and tension of hand swelling.
Fish: Salmon, cod and sardines are all jam-packed with omega-3 fats that are known to reduce swelling. If you’re not a fan of fish, supplements can be a beneficial substitution. Fish oil pills will have a similar effect.
Nuts: These can be added to almost any meal and can give it extra texture and flavor. Did you know they also help reduce swelling in your joints? Take a bag of walnuts or almonds to snack on at work. Sit back, relax, and let their natural anti-inflammatory properties take effect and reduce the swelling in your hands.
Chocolate: This is a favorite for a few reasons. Of course, chocolate is delicious, but it also has a whole heap of health benefits. Not only will it help with the swelling in your hands, it’s also a heart healthy food and stress reducer.
Fruits and Vegetables: The high-water content in most fruits and vegetables can help rid the body of excess fluid: The more water you take in, the less your body tries to hold onto.
Berries: These small fruits that are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins, proanthocyanins and ellagic acid, which fight inflammation and cell damage. These compounds have anti-inflammatory effects. One or more servings of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, or huckleberries, part of your daily diet.
Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C and the enzyme bromelain, which has been linked to decreased pain and swelling in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, this tropical fruit should be added to your diet. Try it cubed in fruit salad, baked in savory dishes, blended into a smoothie, or added to stir-fries to give a sweet-and-sour zing.
Other foods that have shown to reduce inflammation are fruits that are high in Vitamin C (oranges, grapefruit, and cantaloupe), grapes, olive oil, broccoli, okra, garlic, and ginger.
What foods should people with joint inflammation avoid? The following foods may increase inflammation:
Processed or fried foods
Foods and drinks that are high in sugar, like soda or candy
Dairy, particularly if you’re lactose intolerant
Foods containing gluten, particularly if you have a gluten sensitivity
Alcohol, especially if you have gout
Nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplant
Swelling in the hands can be caused by many different issues including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger and more. If your fingers feel puffy and swollen, it could also be caused by fluid retention. Medically referred to as edema, fluid retention is excess fluid collected in the body's tissues. It’s always important to talk to your doctor if you experience swelling in your hands, or even other symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness.
