Why this common fruit can trigger joint swelling [and what to do about it]
Did you know there’s a common fruit you eat every day that can trigger pain in your elbows, knees, wrists, fingers, and even toes?
Not many people are aware, but a recent study shows that this specific fruit might trigger joint swelling, cause inflammation, and trigger early arthritis formation.
What is this fruit?
Surprisingly, it’s tomatoes.
While technically a fruit, it’s also apart of the nightshade family.
There are over 2,000 types of nightshade plants, fruits, and veggies.
Potatoes, aubergine, peppers, and tomatoes are all types of common nightshades.
Scientists know that potatoes and aubergine can cause inflammation in joints, increase swelling, and worsen arthritis pain.
But when it comes to tomatoes, scientists haven't had much data why tomatoes might cause joint swelling and pain…
Until recently.
See, scientists from New Zealand published a study where they discovered that eating tomatoes raise levels of uric acid.
Here’s where it gets interesting...
Researchers have known for a long time that elevated uric levels can trigger gout - a form of arthritis that affects your joints.
And as you know, living with pain isn't.
Especially knowing I can easily avoid it by making certain choices each time I sit down to eat.
Don’t get me wrong - I enjoy tomatoes.
But if there are studies pointing towards that they could well be contributing to your pain; I’m going to go ahead and say it might be best to avoid them as much as possible.
Better yet, you could try to do a little test yourself.
For example, you could eliminate nightshades from your diet for a couple of weeks and see how you feel.
Then add them back slowly and see if you notice any difference.
This way you could find if nightshades are the reason for your pain.
But what vegetable should you eat in the meantime?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, your best bets are veggies that are high in antioxidants, such as...
● Dark leafy veggies such as broccoli, spinach, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts
● Sweet potatoes
● Carrots
● Onion
● Garlic
● Olives
These can also help controls inflammation and decrease the number of painful flare-ups.
And if you absolutely can’t avoid tomatoes, try to at least reduce the amount you eat.
Speak soon!
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