Arthritis can be a very painful condition, but knowing the best foods for arthritis may provide some pain relief. Since arthritis is characterized by the inflammation and stiffness of the joints, going on an anti-inflammatory diet may help ease the symptoms of arthritis. What are the foods in an anti-inflammatory diet? We have compiled a list of delicious and nutritious anti-inflammatory foods as a guide.
9 Best Foods for Arthritis | Stop Inflammation and Stay Pain-Free
Arthritis Definition: Inflammation of the joints that can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a loss in the range of motion. Arthritis can be treated in many ways, some of them include rest, physical therapy, and medication. Learn more about Arthritis causes and treatments here.
1. Salmon
One of the most common symptoms of arthritis is inflammation of the joints. Salmon has anti-inflammatory properties which help manage the inflammation and provide pain relief. Rheumatoid arthritis has also been linked to having low levels of vitamin D. It’s recommended to eat 3-6 ounces of salmon two to four times a week to help ease the symptoms of arthritis and as a preventive measure.
2. Garlic
Garlic is one of the most delicious ingredients to any meal, but eating it also helps manage the symptoms of arthritis. Diallyl disulfide, a compound found in garlic is an effective antioxidant, which can help prevent inflammation. This means adding more garlic to one’s diet will be beneficial for the joints.
3. Orange Juice
Oranges are full of vitamin C, which gives it antioxidant properties. The antioxidants break the free radicals that cause inflammation and may help ease the symptoms of arthritis. Vitamin C also helps with collagen production, ensuring healthy ligaments and joints. It will be ideal to add more vitamin C to one’s diet because people who lack this vitamin are three times more likely to develop arthritis.
4. Ginger
Ginger stops the inflammatory molecules known as leukotrienes while switching off some inflammatory genes. Both of these factors may help suppress the symptoms of arthritis. Couple it with the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and this vegetable that might even be stronger than conventional painkillers.
5. Green Tea
Drinking green tea may help treat and prevent inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The epigallocatechin gallate found in green tea has shown itself to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. The chemical also inhibits molecules that induce inflammation, making it effective against rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
6. Almonds
Almonds are one of the best things to eat when afflicted with arthritis because these nuts can aid in managing the condition. First, it contains vitamin E which is both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Next is magnesium, which helps prevent the development of chronic inflammation when taken in adequate amounts. Last, it is high in protein. It helps manage arthritis symptoms by helping with weight loss. Overweight people are more at risk of developing osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
7. Turmeric
Consuming turmeric may help prevent joint inflammation from arthritis and ease the pain from the symptoms. Curcumin, a chemical found in turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory qualities. The chemical suppresses inflammatory cytokines and enzymes to fight off chronic inflammation. The reduced pain and inflammation may allow an improved function of joints for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
8. Beets
Beets contain betalain, which gives the body nutrients and antioxidants to reduce inflammation. Betalain reduces inflammation by hindering the COX enzymes, known as triggers of inflammation. The pigment also protects many cells from known toxins triggering the formation of tumors. The anti-inflammatory and potential cancer inhibitor characteristics of beets make it a great addition to any diet.
9. Pineapples
Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme causing the body to produce natural painkillers. These natural painkillers help reduce inflammation and may help stop the growth of tumors. The delicious flavor and health benefits make the pineapple a great choice for a healthy diet.
Check out this video from CBS to learn more about what foods to eat and avoid for people with arthritis:
In the end, arthritis can become a very painful and life-limiting condition, but practicing the right lifestyle changes can make the symptoms more manageable. Learning about anti-inflammatory foods and following an anti-inflammatory diet may help relieve the symptoms of many types of arthritis. It’s important to make the necessary adjustments for chronic illnesses because even the smallest of changes can drastically improve the quality of life.
What other foods are good to include in an anti-inflammatory diet? Tell us in the comments section below!
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*This post has been updated in March 2020 for accuracy
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