Feb
Certain foods have been shown to fight inflammation, strengthen bones and boost the immune system. Adding these foods to your balanced diet may help ease the symptoms of your arthritis.
Fish oil
A substantial amount of research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may prevent inflammation in the body and reduce symptoms associated with arthritis. Researchers from the Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health have discovered that the COX-2 enzymes that cause joint inflammation are more active when you eat a high ratio of animal fats to omega-3 fatty acids.
Try reducing your intake of animal fats while increasing your consumption of healthy omega-3 fats, which are found in salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout, flaxseeds and walnuts.
Broccoli
Apparently, Mom knew what she was talking about when she told you to eat your broccoli. According to a Mayo Clinic 11-year study, broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables were shown to protect against the development of arthritis.
Although this study examined the chance of arthritis development rather than pain management, it wouldn’t hurt to add cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, and bok choy to your regular diet.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for thousands of years to treat colds, nausea, migraines, and hypertension. Although clinical studies report mixed results regarding ginger’s role in arthritis, the Journal of Medicinal Food gives evidence to support the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant role of ginger.
To add more ginger to your diet, try grating fresh ginger over sautéed vegetables, adding sliced ginger to tea, and sprinkling ground ginger in baked good batters.
Vitamin C
Start putting vitamin C-rich bell peppers, oranges, mangos, strawberries, pineapple, and kidney beans on your grocery list. According to one study, greater intake of vitamin C was associated with a 30 percent reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Choose dietary sources of vitamin C rather than supplements, as high doses have been known to exacerbate symptoms of arthritis. According to the USDA, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 90 mg/day for men and 75 mg/day for women.
