10 Foods that Help Ease Arthritis Pain
If you’re struggling with arthritis pain, eating certain foods that are high in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties may help. Adding these 10 simple foods to your diet can make a big difference.
Fuel up on Fish: Certain types of fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are inflammation-fighting and can thus reduce the likelihood of arthritis pain. Doctors recommend 3 to 4 ounces of fish, twice a week, including salmon, tuna, and herring.
Say Yes to Soy: Not a fan of fish but want that same results? Try heart-healthy soybeans. Soybeans are low in fat, high in protein and fiber.
Opt for Oils: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado, and safflower oils have shown to have a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 acids.
Check out Cherries: Cherries help reduce the frequency of gout attacks. Cherries have been found to have highly effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, cherries can relieve arthritis pain and inflammation.
Don’t Ditch the Dairy: Low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are packed with calcium and vitamin D, both found to increase bone strength. If dairy doesn’t agree with you, try other calcium and vitamin D-rich foods like leafy green vegetables.
Go Green (Tea): Green tea is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that have the ability to reduce inflammation and the arthritis pain that can result.
Buy those Berries: Berries are rich in antioxidants. The Arthritis Foundation notes that blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, and boysenberries all provide arthritis-fighting power.
Grab the Garlic: Because garlic contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that limits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines, garlic helps fight inflammation.
Nibble on Nuts: Nuts are rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E, and immune-boosting alpha-linolenic acid. Nuts are also heart-healthy and beneficial for weight loss. Try walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, and pistachios.
Try that Turmeric: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, that also prevents heart disease, keeps your blood vessels healthy, and helps maintain joint health. Add a teaspoon to your favorite dish daily to help boost your immunity and help those joints stay strong. Tumeric capsules are also an easy way to get a daily dose.
A healthy diet and incorporating foods like those above can make a big difference in your ability to live a healthy and active life. Call your doctor or Shenandoah Community Health Clinic for more tips on keeping arthritis pain under control.
Sources:
Best Spices for Arthritis | Arthritis Foundation
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