Foods That Help Arthritis
Arthritis is an ailment that has been plaguing man since the beginning of time. It happens when inflammation attacks one or more joints in the body, causing swelling, pain, stiffness and sometimes a diminished range of motion. Medical science treats arthritis with anti-inflammatory and pain medications; however, many people are finding that certain foods and supplements are playing a major role in the relief of arthritis symptoms.
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Good Foods to Include in the Diet
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Sulfur is needed by the body for the repair and rebuilding of bone, cartilage and connective tissue. Make sure to add asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions to your diet. There are other beneficial foods to consume daily such as fresh vegetables (especially leafy greens), fresh fruits, whole grains, oatmeal, brown rice, fish, soybeans products and avocados. Tart red cherries have been know to relieve pain and inflammation, so including these in the diet, either fresh or frozen, is a plus.
Vitamin C, an Antioxidant
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Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which cause cellular damage. In arthritis, antioxidants may slow down the progression of degeneration and, in turn, help relieve some of the pain. Fill up on foods with vitamin C as it promotes healthy collagen, an important part of cartilage. Vitamin C foods include strawberries, papayas, citrus fruits, broccoli, kale, brussel sprouts, kidney beans, kiwi, cantaloupe, cauliflower, mangoes and mustard greens. Eat fresh pineapple as much as possible, as the enzyme bromelain reduces inflammation. The only catch is that it must be fresh because freezing and canning destroys enzymes.
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Good Fats
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When combating the symptoms of arthritis, consider omega-3 fatty acids. This rich nutrient is found in salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, trout, flaxseed and walnuts. If fish is not your favorite food, try fish oil supplements. Next in line for good fats is olive oil, a good monounsaturated fat that protects the body from inflammation due to the polyphenols it contains. Use extra-virgin olive oil for cooking, in salads and as a dip for fresh bread.
Spices are Helpful
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People may not think of spices as food, but they are plant-based and have powerful healing effects. For arthritis, the spices turmeric and ginger help to curb inflammation. Turmeric, also called curcumin, is used to make curry dishes and has anti-inflammatory properties. The flavor of ginger is highly appealing to many people and is used as a tea, baked into foods and grated in stir-fry entrees. The chemicals in the ginger plant work similar to anti-inflammatory medicines, so it is a good candidate for arthritis relief. The only contraindication for ginger is that it thins the blood, so if you are taking blood-thinning medications, contact your doctor before adding ginger to your diet.
Foods to Avoid
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Nightshade vegetables contain a substance called solanine, which can cause pain and discomfort in muscles of people who are sensitive to it. Foods to avoid are peppers, eggplant, tomatoes and white potatoes. The only way to confirm sensitivity is by experimentation and keeping a food journal.
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References
- Photo Credit rlonas: Flickr.com
