Foods to Manage Arthritic Pain
Arthritis is one of the most common diseases worldwide but unfortunately, there is no treatment method to cure it completely. The condition causes inflammation, swelling, and stiffness in joints, thus reducing mobility and adversely affecting the quality of life. For relief from this disease, one must undergo proper treatment and several medications. Along with that, doctors recommend that the patient take some preventive steps and develop certain self-health care techniques such as following the right diet.
Know what to consume and what to avoid is essential as it can ultimately help to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
Here is a list of top foods to manage arthritis pain
- Fish
Fish are known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. Fish such as mackerel, sardines, trout, and salmon are recommended top foods to manage arthritis pain. They are also a good source of vitamin D. People with arthritis should eat at least one portion of fish per week. This can be had as baked or grilled rather than fried. Those who cannot eat fish should take supplements such as fish oil and/or flaxseed oil which contain fatty acids. - Garlic
Garlic not only helps in arthritis but also aids in improving overall health. Full of health benefits, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in several studies and is assuredly one of the top foods to manage arthritis pain. - Ginger
Studies have shown that ginger has properties that block the production of inflammation-inducing agents in the body. Compounds such as gingerol present in it act on the damage-inducing enzymes. Ginger can be used in its fresh, dried, or powdered form to add flavor to soups, teas, and other beverages. - Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are a virtual storehouse of nutrition that helps to fight the inflammation caused by arthritis. A component called sulforaphane found in broccoli has been found to be beneficial in reducing and preventing inflammation. It also consists of calcium and is abundant in vitamins K and C. - Walnuts
Components found in walnuts have been found to reduce the discomfort of arthritis, suppress inflammation, and prevent dependence on medication. They are a rich source of calcium, zinc, vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. Walnuts are available year-round and are also a source of omega-3 fatty acids. - Berries
All berries such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and cherries have tons of arthritis-fighting nutrients packed into them per serving. They get their bright color from a flavonoid called anthocyanins, which are a powerful antioxidant. - Spinach
Though all leafy greens are full of nutrition, spinach is extremely rich in antioxidants, phytochemicals, and components to reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. They boost immunity levels, thus giving your body the power to fight off infection. - Grapes
Full of nutrients, grapes are one of the top foods to manage arthritis pain. Grapes are not only rich in antioxidants but they are also rich in anti-inflammatory components that prevent stiffening of joints.
It is pertinent to note that diet plays a crucial role in arthritis severity and symptoms. Including these top foods to manage arthritis pain in your daily diet can actually be very beneficial for the condition and improve overall health. It is advisable to avoid sugar, processed foods, alcohol, red meat, fried foods, cheese, and high-fat dairy to reduce inflammation.