There's no truly "good" alcoholic drink for inflammation, but red wine (in moderation) may offer some anti-inflammatory compounds like resveratrol, while choosing spirits with natural mixers (like tequila or gin with seltzer/herbs) or dry, low-sugar options like some ciders and champagne can minimize sugar-induced inflammation, but moderation is key as alcohol itself promotes inflammation. Water is the best choice, but if you drink alcohol, focus on low-sugar choices, fresh ingredients, and sticking to recommended limits (1/day women, 2/day men) to avoid worsening inflammation.
Additionally, light to moderate ethanol levels may also directly reduce inflammation by increasing HDL cholesterol and adiponectin levels, and by improving insulin sensitivity and endothelial function [12].
Wine as an Antioxidant-Rich Beverage
It's true; studies suggest that wine is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties thanks to a compound called resveratrol found in most varieties. However, these benefits are best consumed in moderation as heavy alcohol drinking can negatively impact overall health.
Green, black and white teas are all rich in polyphenols – compounds from plants that have strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
Naproxen sodium, known as the brand name Aleve, is generally considered to be safe for use when consuming alcohol. However, like ibuprofen, naproxen sodium carries a risk of stomach bleeding and should be used for the shortest amount of time possible.
Black, white, and green teas are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols which can help combat inflammation. Some herbal teas also have anti-inflammatory benefits. Many herbs and spices also contain compounds that can help combat inflammation.
The "healthiest" alcohol options focus on low sugar, fewer additives, and potential antioxidants, with red wine often topping lists for its polyphenols (like resveratrol), though moderation is key. Other good choices include clear spirits (vodka, gin, tequila) mixed with water or soda water (not tonic) to keep sugar and calories low, and drinks with vegetable bases like a Bloody Mary, or lower-sugar options like hard seltzers, light beers, or dry wines.
Anti-inflammatory Foods
One form of these powerful inflammation fighters is found in fatty fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, tuna, striped bass and anchovies. You can get the benefit from eating the fish or by taking fish oil supplements. Vegetarians and vegans have options, too.
Sweet drinks are high in calories and added sugar and offer no nutritional value. Drinking too much soda, juice, or sweet tea may lead to weight gain and metabolic changes that trigger inflammation. Swap out your sweet drinks for plain water or unsweetened herbal tea so you don't aggravate your arthritis.
Clinically, acute inflammation is characterized by five cardinal signs: rubor (redness), calor (heat), tumor (swelling), dolor (pain), and functio laesa (loss of function).
It is also teeming with numerous beneficial compounds that are great for your well-being. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in tequila help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is especially helpful to those suffering from arthritis, asthma, or eczema.
Here are some drinks that contribute to inflammation: Soda: they are concentrated in simple sugar and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Diet soda may not contain sugar, but it is still loaded with other chemicals. It is better to drink water, tea, or sparkling water.
Potential Health Benefits of Whiskey
Its ellagic acid content may also reduce bodily inflammation and lower the risk of obesity. Research suggests that there are other health benefits to drinking whiskey.
The "20-minute rule for alcohol" is a simple strategy to moderate drinking: wait 20 minutes after finishing one alcoholic drink before starting the next, giving you time to rehydrate with water and reassess if you truly want another, often reducing cravings and overall intake. It helps slow consumption, break the chain of continuous drinking, and allows the body a natural break, making it easier to decide if you've had enough or switch to a non-alcoholic option.
Hardy and Helen Goodell tried a mixture of two ounces of 95% grain alcohol in a glass of ginger ale on themselves, found that it raises the “threshold” of pain 45% for two hours. Two ounces of 90-proof whiskey will turn the same trick. If a five-grain tablet of aspirin is added, any pain can be dulled for four hours.
All alcohols cause some inflammation during the process of being metabolized. However, because vodka does not contain congeners or additional sugars, it is one of the least inflammatory alcohol drinks you can enjoy.
8 drinks to reduce inflammation
Clinical studies have suggested that the moderate consumption of beer is beneficial for human health, mainly due to the phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Beer is a beverage rich in phenolic compounds derived from hop (30%) and malt (70–80%) [13].
There are several common-sense things you can do to protect yourself against inflammation:
Injuries and infections typically cause acute inflammation. Environmental factors, including aspects of your daily life and exposures to toxins, are the culprits behind most cases of chronic inflammation. Common causes include: Low levels of physical activity.
While there's no single "strongest," Omega-3 fatty acids (from fatty fish) and curcumin (from turmeric) are consistently cited as highly potent natural anti-inflammatories, alongside powerful antioxidants from fruits and vegetables like blueberries, plus herbs like ginger and garlic, all working to reduce inflammation pathways. A comprehensive anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes these foods, though Omega-3s and curcumin often stand out for their significant impact.
Considered one of the most dangerous – and unhealthy – drinks, a Long Island iced tea doesn't actually contain any iced tea. Instead, it's a combination of vodka, gin, rum, tequila and triple sec, topped with sour mix and soda. All together, that means one Long Island contains as many as 780 calories.
However, if you are going to drink, having red wine in moderation is a healthier choice than other alcoholic drinks. This is due to its high levels of antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been linked to better heart and gut health.
Tequila and vodka are both alcoholic beverages, so they don't offer any significant health benefits. Choosing the right type of alcohol can make a difference in terms of your calorie intake and other factors. Both tequila and vodka have roughly the same number of calories per serving, assuming the same alcohol content.
Load up on anti-inflammatory foods
“Making good choices in our diet to include fresh vegetables and fruits as well as reducing refined sugar intake can make a big difference," Dr. Pitis says. Eat more fruits and vegetables and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids.