Arthritis is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States, affecting more than 58 million people, and causing pain that affects mobility and function. The best arthritis care is early care.
Many people get relief from their arthritis pain with over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications. But if you’re looking for an alternative treatment option for reducing joint pain and inflammation, you may want to consider food. Nutrients in certain foods may reduce inflammation, improve joint health, and ease that discomfort.
At Healthstone Primary Care Partners in Weston, Pembroke Pines, and Davie, Florida, our team takes a patient-first approach to care. Many of our patients look for more natural ways to heal their bodies and ease their pain.
In honor of Arthritis Awareness Month, we want to share the top 10 foods to help ease your arthritis pain.
Salmon, tuna, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are anti-inflammatories that reduce joint inflammation. Adding more omega-3-rich food may decrease the amount of anti-inflammatory medication you need to take.
For overall health and well-being, add two servings — 3 to 4 ounces per serving — of fatty fish to your weekly menu.
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and may help ease your arthritis pain. Slice some strawberries into your morning cereal or add a handful of blueberries to your yogurt to get more of these health-boosting nutrients in your diet.
Cherries are also rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients, including polyphenols and vitamin C. Both sweet and tart cherries reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and arthritis pain, according to a review study published in Nutrients.
Olive oil isn’t as rich in omega-3 fatty acids as fatty fish, but it has a nice balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Olive oil also contains a substance called oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties that might ease some of your joint discomfort.
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Asian cooking. The curcumin in turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that people with osteoarthritis (OA) use to ease joint pain. To get the benefits, add turmeric to your soups, stews, or casseroles.
You can find turmeric supplements, but we recommend you consult with us before adding any dietary supplements to your daily regimen. Dietary supplements may interact with other medications.
Green tea contains a chemical — epigallocatechin-3-gallate (ECCG) — that decreases your body’s production of inflammatory agents. This includes the inflammatory agents that cause arthritis inflammation and pain.
Soy foods like edamame and tofu are a good source of protein and high in fiber. They also contain a small amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Adding more soy to your diet may benefit your overall health and well-being, especially when used to replace animal proteins.
Nuts are rich in fiber and protein and low in saturated fat. They also contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats and vitamin E. When adding nuts to your diet, use unsalted varieties to get the health benefits without the extra sodium.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale boost your intake of vitamins C and E, which are powerful antioxidants that protect your body from oxidative damage. Vitamin C also supports collagen production, one of the main proteins found in the cartilage that separates your joints.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, people who eat more garlic and onions are less likely to show early signs of osteoarthritis. One of the substances in garlic and onions — diallyl disulfide — may protect the cartilage in your joints by limiting the rate of degeneration.
Don’t let your arthritis dictate how you live your life. Making a few changes to your diet can reduce your pain and inflammation.
Let us help you take control of your arthritis. Call our office or request an appointment online today.
