Arthritis Can Be Painful : Ten Foods To Eat Which May Help

 The 10 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis

Some foods, including fatty fish and berries, contain nutrients that may help reduce inflammation in people with arthritis.

Arthritis is a term for a class of diseases that cause pain, swelling, and joint stiffness. It can affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds.

There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is one type that develops in joints with overuse. Another type is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your joints 

Fortunately, many foods can ease inflammation and may help relieve some of the joint pain associated with arthritis.

One survey found that 24% of those with RA reported that their diet impacted the severity of their symptoms.

This article will look at 10 of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis.

1. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, for example salmon, sardines, herring, mackerels are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, both of which may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and the severity of arthritis symptoms.

2. Garlic

Studies have found garlic supplements may possess anti-inflammatory properties and help relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammatory markers from arthritis.

3. Ginger

Ginger supplements have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation symptoms from osteoarthritis or RA.

4. Broccoli

It’s no secret that cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are one of the healthiest foods. It may even be associated with reduced inflammation. One study that looked at the diets of 1,005 females found that the intake of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli was associated with decreased levels of inflammatory markers.

5. Walnuts

Walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which could alleviate arthritis symptoms as well as inflammation. However, more research is needed.

6. Berries

Berries, for example strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries contain antioxidants and have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of arthritis in some studies.

7. Spinach

Leafy greens like spinach are full of nutrients, and some of their components may be able to help decrease inflammation caused by arthritis. Several studies have found that a higher intake of fruits and vegetables is linked to lower levels of inflammation. Spinach, in particular, contains plenty of antioxidants and plant compounds that can relieve inflammation and help fight disease.

8. Grapes

Grapes are nutrient-dense, high in antioxidants, and possess anti-inflammatory properties. One review of 24 studies concluded that grape products could significantly reduce levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker used to measure inflammation.

9. Olive Oil

Olive oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote autophagy, a process that helps clear out damaged cells from the body, which could be beneficial for arthritis. Diet patterns rich in olive oil, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce symptoms of RA.

10. Tart Cherry Juice

Studies show that tart cherry juice could lower inflammation and alleviate some symptoms of arthritis.

The bottom line
Diet can play a major role in arthritis severity and symptoms. Luckily, various foods with powerful components may relieve inflammation and arthritis while promoting overall health. Along with conventional treatments, eating a nutritious diet containing healthy fats, a few servings of fatty fish, and plenty of produce may help reduce some symptoms of arthritis.

Words above are taken from a 'Healthline' article, which you can read in full with all relevant information and research links here

Readers may also wish to read the NHS/UK site regarding Arthritis, find it here

Please note articles within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider.

All the best Jan