The worst part about a condition like joint pain is how debilitating it is. Morning stiffness, pain, and inflammation make it difficult for people to function normally. Although no particular diet aids the development of arthritis, making smarter food choices can help you go a long way towards maintaining its symptoms. In this article, we will be discussing the different kinds of foods that can help alleviate arthritis symptoms.
Cruciferous vegetables
In addition to other healthy foods, one must eat a bunch of cruciferous veggies every day. These are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.They also contain an element called sulforaphane, which blocks a cell that causes rheumatoid arthritis. Broccoli, kale, and collard greens are a few of the options you can add to your diet.
Garlic and ginger
Both garlic and ginger are jam-packed with health benefits. They have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce symptoms of arthritis, including knee pain. Garlic also helps strengthen the immune system and keep heart diseases at bay. The gingerol in ginger reacts with heat- and pain-sensitive receptors, helping control inflammation levels in the body.
Green tea
This popular beverage has significant health benefits. It contains polyphenolic compounds, which are a substance containing anti-inflammatory properties. This reduces joint pain and limits or blocks the production of certain cartilage-destroying molecules. It is important to choose organic brands to avoid the presence of pesticides in the tea.
Berries
Blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries are just a few of the many berries that provide you with arthritis-fighting agents. They are exceptionally rich in different vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory properties. One can easily eat them fresh, dried, or by adding them to cereals, oatmeal, and smoothies.
Fatty fish
Fish like mackerel, salmon, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce stiffness and pain. Additionally, arthritis can be a result of a vitamin D deficiency, and two servings of the protein a week may provide you with an adequate amount of the nutrient.
Tart cherries
Tart cherries are especially high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. A serving of sugar-free, natural tart cherry juice per day can alleviate the symptoms of the condition. It is also loaded with other nutrients and health benefits. Pairing it with other pain management foods can help you manage the issues that come with the joint disorder.
Walnuts
High in antioxidants and nutrients, walnuts make for a great snack. Their properties help ease the symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. Apart from this, the omega-3 fatty acids present in them are associated with reduced levels of pain.
Herbs and spices
Spices like turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. A hugely common ingredient in Indian and South-Asian cuisine, you can use it in smoothies, or blend it with other spices like black pepper. It has been reported that people who took curcumin supplements regularly could walk better and felt less pain over time.
