Are you aware that certain foods can relieve arthritis pain? The month of May is dedicated to arthritis awareness. Now is a great time to share treatments and resources that may help patients living with arthritis.
Preventing and improving arthritis symptoms can be achieved by following a well-balanced diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods. Maintaining a healthy weight and consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals also benefit your joint health.
Arthritis is one of the most common health conditions in the United States. Almost 59 million adults have been diagnosed with arthritis.1 Anti-inflammatory diets should include fruits and vegetables with deep colors. There are a number of nutrients in nature that promote good skeletal health. When purchasing groceries, remember to include all colors of the rainbow, look for:
Leafy greens: They fight inflammation! Greens contain more nutrients when they are darker in color. The leafy greens spinach, kale, chard, arugula, endive, turnip greens, beet greens, and collard greens have been found to reduce chronic inflammation due to significant concentrations of vitamins and minerals.
Nuts: Nuts are vitamin-packed healthy snacks that have many anti-inflammatory benefits. Almonds, pecans, walnuts, and Brazilian nuts contain magnesium, selenium, and zinc, which help reduce inflammation. In addition to polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, nuts and seeds have been shown to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease among people with arthritis.
Fish: Fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, which are known as fatty fish, help to reduce inflammation in the body. A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D will protect your heart, lower inflammation, and relieve arthritis pain.
Berries: Berry extracts are rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Fruits contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation. Blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, and blackberries contain anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation and help fight arthritis symptoms.
Green Tea: Since ancient times, green tea has gotten used medicinally. Green tea is made from unfermented tea leaves and is rich in polyphenols. Green tea is also rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants protect your cells from free radicals and prevent cartilage degradation.
Turmeric: Turmeric is a commonly used spice. Curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that promotes healing. The pain-relieving abilities of turmeric may be comparable to those of prescription and over-the-counter medicines in certain circumstances.
Even though there is no cure for arthritis, certain foods can strengthen bones, maintain the immune system, and combat inflammation. Incorporating these foods into your diet may relieve pain and other symptoms associated with arthritis.
Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly-skilled, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the latest orthopedic techniques and provides quality, compassionate, state of the art orthopedic care.
1. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/data_statistics/arthritis-related-stats.htm
