Foods to Effectively Manage Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is a condition in which joints in the body swell and throb with immense pain. This pain can be managed not just by medication, but also by choosing the right foods. Foods that contain high levels of nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids have high anti-inflammatory properties. A balanced intake of such foods can reduce inflammation, soothe joints, and relieve pain caused to the bones. If you or somebody you know has arthritis, then refer to this list of foods to effectively manage arthritis:
- Walnuts
Walnuts are a superfood that can combat arthritis pain by reducing inflammatory markers. They contain healthy fats and antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. They have a high concentration of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, which makes them essential for bone health. A daily intake of one or two walnuts can thus ease joint pain caused by arthritis.
- Salmon
Having two servings of salmon in a week can decrease stiffness in your joints. Salmon is a good source of polyunsaturated fats and vitamin D. Many with rheumatoid arthritis have low levels of vitamin D; hence, a regular intake of salmon can help in boosting Vitamin D levels. The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can also reduce inflammation in the joints, thereby reducing arthritis pain.
- Garlic
A bulb of garlic, which was revered for its health benefits by the ancient Greeks, Chinese, and Romans, has multiple anti-inflammatory properties. It has diallyl disulfide that alleviates the inflammatory effect that arthritis has on the bones. Once inflammation is stopped in its tracks, its symptoms can drastically reduce. Apart from this, garlic is also known to strengthen the immune system and battle osteoarthritis.
- Spinach
Leafy vegetables such as spinach are composed of antioxidants and nutritious plant compounds. A cup of spinach contains about 24 milligrams of magnesium. These components induce muscle and nerve movement. Spinach should be a nutritious addition to your diet especially if you are battling rheumatoid arthritis, as kaempferol, an antioxidant that is present in spinach, can help ease inflammation to a great extent.
- Bone Broth
Bone broth is a kind of stock made with bones from pork, chicken, turkey, lamb, or even fish. These bones have compounds of glucosamine and chondroitin that boost joint health. Bone broth is also a good source of calcium, which helps in maintaining bone density. Because it is packed with minerals, bone broth also helps in building bone health.
- Broccoli
Broccoli comprises a large amount of sulforaphane, a plant compound that blocks a type of cell that is often formed in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Broccoli is also a top calcium-rich food that supports bone health. Additionally, it is known to abate the damage done to cartilages as a result of osteoarthritis.