If you have arthritis, you know just how devastating this condition can be.
Arthritis is a term for a class of diseases that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds.
There are many different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is one type, which develops in joints with overuse. Another type is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your joints.
Fortunately, there are many foods that can ease inflammation and may help relieve some of the joint pain associated with arthritis.
In fact, one survey found that 24% of those with rheumatoid arthritis reported that their diet had an impact on the severity of their symptoms.
This article will look at 10 of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis.
1. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish varieties such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects.
Fatty fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, both of which may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and the severity of arthritis symptoms.
2. Garlic
Garlic is jam-packed with health benefits.
Human and test-tube studies have found garlic may possess anti-inflammatory properties, and that eating it may be associated with a decreased risk of osteoarthritis.
3. Ginger
Besides adding a burst of flavor to teas, soups, and sweets, ginger may also help ease the symptoms of arthritis.
Ginger has been shown to reduce symptoms of arthritis. Test-tube and animal studies have also found it may decrease inflammation, but more research in humans is needed.
4. Broccoli
It's no secret that broccoli is one of the healthiest foods out there. In fact, it may even be associated with reduced inflammation.
Broccoli has been associated with reduced inflammation. It also contains sulforaphane, which may have anti-inflammatory properties, according to test-tube studies. More research is needed to look at the effects of broccoli in humans.
5. Walnuts
Walnuts are nutrient-dense and loaded with compounds that may help reduce the inflammation associated with joint disease.
Walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which could alleviate arthritis symptoms as well as inflammation.
6. Berries
Tons of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are crammed into each serving of berries, which may partially account for their unique ability to decrease inflammation.
Berries contain antioxidants that have been shown to decrease arthritis-related inflammatory markers in test-tube and animal studies.
7. Spinach
Leafy greens like spinach are full of nutrients, and some of their components may actually be able to help decrease inflammation caused by arthritis.
Spinach is rich in antioxidants, including kaempferol. Test-tube studies have found that kaempferol can reduce inflammation and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
8. Grapes
Grapes are nutrient-dense, high in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Grapes have anti-inflammatory properties and contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation. However, additional studies in humans are needed.
9. Olive Oil
Well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil may have a favorable effect on arthritis symptoms.
Olive oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and may be associated with a lower risk of arthritis. One animal study found that it might slow arthritis progression and ease symptoms.
10. Tart Cherry Juice
Tart cherry juice is an increasingly popular beverage derived from the fruit of the Prunus cerasus tree.
Studies show that tart cherry juice could lower inflammation and alleviate some symptoms of arthritis.
The Bottom Line
It's clear that diet can play a major role in arthritis severity and symptoms.
Luckily, a variety of foods with powerful components may offer relief from inflammation and arthritis — while also promoting overall health.
Along with conventional treatments, eating a nutritious diet containing healthy fats, a few servings of fatty fish and plenty of produce may help reduce some symptoms of arthritis.
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in the Richmond Hill – Queens and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Richmond Hill office at (718) 215-1888, or (516) 419-4480 for Long Island office, to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialist, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko.
