Foods That Fight Arthritis
Many people in this country suffer from the painful side effects of arthritis and search for ways to get through each day. Many will turn to medications and even surgery to try and find relief. But what if there was a safer and more natural way to lessen the severity of your arthritis? Thankfully there is, and that is what we here at the Pain Relief Institute want to share with you today. There is a secret weapon that far too many do not know about or take advantage of- foods that fight arthritis!
Ten Foods That Fight Arthritis
You don’t have to suffer in silence and you don’t have to just accept your arthritis as an unavoidable fact of life – here are ten foods you should eat if you have arthritis:
- Fatty Fish
Fatty fish have long been held in high regard for their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats. These elements have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects and are found in common varieties such as salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, and tuna. Many studies have been done over the years that show these fatty acids help protect joints from the wear and tear and deterioration caused by arthritis. Fish is also high in vitamin D, which is a vital nutrient for the healthy function of many of the body’s systems. - Garlic
Garlic is teeming with a wide range of impressive and even surprising health benefits. In some laboratory studies, the compounds found in garlic have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties as well as evidence that they can help with memory, brain cell heath, tissue regeneration, and many other amazing effects within the human body. Additionally, garlic is well known for its anti-inflammatory which makes it a great food choice for those who are suffering from arthritis and who need relief from the pain and inflammation of the disease. - Ginger
Besides being a great flavor addition to tea, soup, and main dishes, ginger is also a powerful tool for fighting arthritis. It is one of the foods you should eat if you have arthritis. A 2001 study shows test subjects reporting an overwhelmingly positive response to the addition of ginger into their daily diet. Many studies have demonstrated its amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. Consuming ginger in any form can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the joints and can help combat the pain of arthritis. - Broccoli
This green delight has long been held as one of the healthiest foods that can be added to a diet. What many do not know is that it has amazing properties that are thought to help maintain healthy nutrient balance for cellular development. One key nutrient found in broccoli is sulforaphane which has been shown to help block certain pain receptors and to reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Most studies so far have been laboratory-based and animal based but many human studies are now showing promising results as well. This is just one example of foods that fight arthritis. - Walnuts
Walnuts are a healthy snack that has long been the go-to snacks for health-conscious individuals. Many of the nutrients found in walnuts help combat infections, swelling, and pain, making it one of the foods you should eat if you have arthritis. These nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and other micronutrients that are believed to help fight joint damage and minimize the pain associated with arthritis. They are easy to work into your diet as they are a healthy snack option and deliver amazing health benefits with just a few servings. - Berries
Loaded with lots of antioxidants, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals berries have long been hailed as one of the best power foods for overall health and wellbeing. Additionally, berries are rich in quercetin and rutin, plant exclusive antioxidant nutrients that can help fight the effects of arthritis’ attacks on the joints. Just about any berry can deliver powerful health benefits for those fighting arthritis- strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries being the popular options for a sweet and healthy snack! - Spinach
Leafy greens are known to be chock full of nutrients and vitamins that help keep many of the body’s systems functioning at optimal levels. Many of the nutrients are being shown to help decrease inflammation that is caused by arthritis. This is believed to be because of antioxidants that can relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Spinach is especially high in the antioxidant kaempferol, which makes this leafy green one of the best foods you should eat if you have arthritis. Whether fresh, frozen, or steamed, spinach can keep your joints healthy. - Grapes
Grapes have long been heralded as a healthy way to deal with sweet tooth cravings and they also help provide several important nutrients that help keep the body’s systems functioning properly. All varieties of grapes contain several compounds that have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. The highly beneficial antioxidant known resveratrol is present in the skin of grapes and helps restore cellular health throughout the body. Grapes also contain the compound proanthocyanidin, which can help fight inflammation in the joints. - Olive Oil
Olive oil has been used for centuries as a medical element and it has long been known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies were done in the laboratory, in mice, and initial human studies all show the olive oil may offer relief from the symptoms of arthritis when it is used as part of one’s regular diet. Although more research is needed to understand just how it helps relieve pain and inflammation, it has been shown to offer many health benefits and other perks, which is why many consider it one of the powerful foods that fight arthritis. - Tart Cherry Juice
This popular drink is one that is derived from the fruit of the variety of cherry tree known as Prunus cerasus. This potent juice offers a wide array of nutrients and health benefits including everything from a reduction in inflammation, better cellular health, and improved energy levels. Initial studies are showing it can also help provide more relief for those who suffer from the pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with arthritis. It is best to consume an unsweetened variety of this juice so you are not consuming too much sugar in your diet.
The Bottom Line
It’s clear that diet can play a major role in arthritis severity and symptoms. The foods you choose to eat on a regular basis can have a huge impact on the severity of your symptoms. Here at the Pain Relief Institute, we help our patients find ways to overcome their arthritis symptoms, and one of the best ways to do so is by being mindful of what you put into your body. With this list of foods you should eat if you have arthritis, you can start taking control of your health starting right now! Call us today to make an appointment and to learn more about the foods that fight arthritis and what other things you can do to reduce your symptoms today!