For those who suffer from hand and finger pain it’s important to pay attention to your diet as certain foods can exacerbate inflammation and pain. Although physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help your recovery, your diet is a powerful tool in managing your pain levels, and choosing the right foods can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. A dietitian or naturopathic doctor can help you make nutritious decisions during your healing process. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the common foods to avoid if you have hand and finger pain, and what alternatives you can consider.
Processed Foods
Processed foods have earned a bad reputation for their high sugar, fat, and salt content, which can cause inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation can then lead to pain and discomfort, including in the hands and fingers. Examples of processed foods to avoid include fast food, pre-packaged snacks, and processed meats. Instead, opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Sugar
Sugar is a common ingredient in many processed and packaged foods, as well as soda and sweets. When consumed in excess, sugar can lead to an inflammatory response in the body which can cause or exacerbate hand and finger pain. To minimize your sugar intake, swap out sugary snacks for fresh fruit, or try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead.
Dairy
Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, can sometimes trigger inflammation in certain people. This is because dairy contains a protein called casein, which can be difficult for some bodies to digest and lead to joint inflammation. Consider trying dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, cashew cheese, or soy yogurt to help reduce your pain levels.
Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For those who are sensitive to gluten, consuming it can cause inflammation and pain throughout the body, including in the hands and fingers. Consider going gluten-free or reducing your gluten intake by swapping regular pasta and bread for gluten-free alternatives made with rice or corn.
Nightshade Vegetables
Certain vegetables, known as nightshade vegetables, can trigger inflammation and pain in some people. Examples of nightshade vegetables include tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and potatoes. While not everyone will experience pain after consuming these vegetables, it’s worth observing how you feel after eating them and considering reducing your intake if you notice discomfort.
While it can be challenging to make dietary changes, taking steps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in your body can have a significant impact on your hand and finger pain. By avoiding processed foods, sugar, dairy, gluten, and nightshade vegetables, you can help reduce inflammation and manage your symptoms. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian or naturopath for more personalized advice on managing your hand and finger pain through diet and exercise.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopath at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
