If you’re feeling stiff, there are several foods that can actually help to ease your joint pain! Especially if you have arthritis, these are some foods you should try to implement into your diet for some pain relief:
- Omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fatty acids may prevent
inflammation in the body and reduce symptoms associated with arthritis. The enzymes that cause joint inflammation are more active when you eat a high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fats are found in meat, corn, snack foods, sunflower oil, etc. Try to reduce these fats and increase the omega-3 fats you consume, which are fond in salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout, flax seeds and walnuts. - Broccoli. According to a Mayo Clinic 11-year study, broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables were shown to protect against the development of arthritis. Adding cabbage, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, kale and bok coy to your regular diet could protect you against developing arthritis if you don’t have it.
- Vitamin D. Women without a history of arthritis who consume more dietary vitamin D have a lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Besides oily fish few foods contain vitamin D. Certain foods, such as dairy products and bread, may have vitamin D, but the sun is also a good source (provided that you’re protected!).
- Olive oil. Diets that are rich in olive oil, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to reduce pain and stiffness in patients with arthritis. Olive oil’s anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to oleic acid. Incorporate more olive oil into your diet by substituting store-bought salad dressings for a homemade version.
- Vitamin C. 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.
For even more foods that you should add to your diet to reduce joint pain, check out this article. Special thanks to Shevlin Health & Wellness Center for presenting this handy tip!
