Swelling could be a sign of a more serious problem. If not treated properly, it can have life-threatening consequences. No, we are not talking about the general swelling which happens when you cut or burn your skin. Here we are focusing on a long-lasting disease like cancer, cardiac problems, stress, diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer's. These diseases are exacting enough and the problem of swelling makes them even more unbearable. But, what if you can get rid of this swelling in an easier and delectable way? Try including these five amazing foods in your diet to help reduce your swelling and live a healthier and pain-free life. Add a dash of imagination and with some basic cooking skills and you might not even miss your sodas, alcohols and processed foods.
Green vegetables
Go green to stay healthier. Green vegetables are at top of the healthy food list because they have anti-inflammatory elements, which help in reducing swelling. Add more green vegetables like broccoli and sprouts in your diet. Either blanch them, steam them or put them in a salad, the options are endless. You can even make a whole wheat sandwich or make wraps with your leafy greens. Fresh and leafy vegetables are the best way to reduce bloating which is known to aid swelling. Not fond of green veggies? Eating avocado daily is also a good option. If you are a fan of spicy food you can always try chilli peppers as they are full of useful acids, which reduce swelling in an effective way.
Turmeric
When it comes to turmeric, this food alone has a million health benefits. The main active element in turmeric is curcumin, which gives turmeric anti-inflammatory properties and reduces swelling efficiently. Just put a few pinches in your foods and you are good to go. You can add black pepper with turmeric for faster results. Turmeric is generally considered safe but larger doses can pose risks for certain people.
Canola oil
Canola oil can bring a host of health benefits to your diet. Adding canola oil with your healthy salads is highly recommended as they are rich in omega-3. The fact that omega-3 is helpful in reducing your swelling makes canola oil a must in your kitchen. Most people prefer omega-6 fatty acids as compared to omega-3 including most processed foods; however, foods rich in Omega-3 are healthier and better at preventing swelling.
Berries
Berries have a high water content, which helps in reducing your swelling. They are rich in antioxidants, fibre and keep your immune system strong. If you do not like eating berries directly, you can simply add them with certain drinks or mix them with Bulgur wheat (Daliya) to enhance your taste. This is one of the best recipes you definitely do not want to skip.
Cherries
Cherries are yet another fruit that can help you get rid of swelling. They have been scientifically proven to be effective in reducing arthritis pain and swellings. In a clinical study including a group of men and women, eating cherries daily for a period of 28 days was reported to considerably aid in swelling reduction. You can just eat them fresh or toss them in salads for a tastier and healthier meal.
Swelling is a common problem associated with long-standing diseases. You can easily get rid of it by making some simple changes in your diet. Keep in mind to eat in moderation even if they are otherwise healthy for you. Some foods might cause swelling too. So always consult your doctor if you are worried about some specific issue. You can also seek the advice of your nutritionist or fitness expert in case you are allergic to a particular food.