5 Delicious Snacks That Help Reduce Pain (By Fighting Inflammation)

When you’re feeling hungry, instead of going for those bags of crisps or ordering fast food…

Why not have a snack that’s not only healthy…

But can also reduce pain and inflammation?

Yes, there ARE snacks that do this…

And one of them is a candy!



These 5 snacks have been shown in studies to help reduce the markers of inflammation. And many of them also contain antioxidants which are always good to have!



1. Dark Chocolate

How could chocolate help reduce inflammation?

Well, here’s a surprising fact:

Cocoa - which is the main ingredient in chocolate, is filled with antioxidants.

These antioxidants can help reduce certain markers of inflammation.

In fact, in from a review provided by the University of Applied Sciences in Germany, they concluded, quote:

“After consumption of cocoa-rich food, most studies observed a decrease in inflammatory biomarkers in healthy subjects after 2–6 hours.”

So the more cocoa your dark chocolate has, the better. We recommend dark chocolates that have more than 70% cocoa.

Try to avoid dark chocolates that have added sugar - and as always, have your chocolate treat in moderation!




2. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are a great snack for when you’re feeling hungry.

It also contains plenty of omega-3s which can help reduce inflammation in your joints and tissue too

In fact, studies find that people who regularly eat nuts and seeds have lower levels of molecules that cause inflammation. And on the flip side, they also have higher levels of anti-inflammatory proteins called adiponectin.

It also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and blood sugar issues too.

Some of the best nuts and seeds include:

- Walnuts

- Flax seeds

- Pumpkin seeds

- Peanuts

- Hazelnuts





3. Blueberries

Blueberries are another great snack that contains natural compounds called flavonoids.

These flavonoids are able to help reduce inflammatory responses in your body.

A review conducted from the U.S. Department of Agriculture states, quote:

“Recent studies have demonstrated that flavonoids can inhibit regulatory enzymes or transcription factors important for controlling mediators involved in inflammation. Flavonoids are also known as potent antioxidants with the potential to attenuate tissue damage or fibrosis.”






4. Red Grapes

Red grapes can also be a healthy, tasty snack that also helps reduce inflammatory responses.

They contain a natural compound called resveratrol - which has been shown to reduce inflammatory responses in your body.

As an additional tip, studies show that combining resveratrol with turmeric can enhance the reduction of inflammation.

So if you want the best results, consider combining the two!








5. Cherries

Last but not least, cherries are also a great source of antioxidants!

In particular, tart cherry juice can help reduce inflammation.

Not to mention, they are also a great source of polyphenols and vitamin C.

And both contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

So why not try some of these delicious snacks today? Your body will thank you.

Dr. Jeremy Campbell

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Therapeutic Pain Specialist | MBA Candidate, Booth School of Business | Consultant/Advisor | Marine Corps Veteran

https://www.drjeremycampbell.com
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