Best Foods for Arthritis

What are the best foods to eat if you have arthritis? What’s the worst thing you can do? Read on to find out which foods may help ease some of your pain, and which may make it worse!

Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a great source of anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate arthritis symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in both plant and animal products, so there’s no reason to think you’ll miss out on these natural remedies just because you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Foods That Alleviate Inflammation

Although no foods are officially considered arthritis foods, some work better than others in reducing inflammation. A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to a reduction in inflammation and joint pain. Foods that contain these healthy fats include salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, flaxseed oil, chia seeds and walnuts.

Foods with Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids are key anti-inflammatory agents in your diet. Studies have shown that fish oil, flaxseed oil, and other sources of omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate pain caused by osteoarthritis. Omega-3’s can be found in avocados, walnuts, spinach, sardines, and salmon. Oats contain avenanthramides which inhibit enzymes that cause inflammation. Eating oats regularly will keep you from experiencing joint pain associated with arthritis.

What Not to Eat

As with any other ailment, there are certain foods you should avoid when it comes to managing arthritis. These include fatty and fried foods; processed and refined carbohydrates; milk products; alcohol; tobacco; coffee and caffeinated beverages (except green tea); red meat, especially processed red meat like hot dogs, deli meats and bacon. If you’re looking to ease symptoms of arthritis but not necessarily cure it completely, consider adding more fresh vegetables and fruits—especially those high in antioxidants—to your diet.

Herbs and Spices with Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Turmeric, ginger, and many other herbs and spices have been shown to fight inflammation. Incorporate turmeric into your diet to calm down pain caused by inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease muscle pains related to inflammatory arthritis such as Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

Foods That Aid in Cartilage Recovery

Omega-3 fatty acids are a great way to ease inflammation, and omega-3s are found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flax seeds. Quercetin is another useful nutrient when it comes to easing arthritis symptoms. It’s a flavonoid that can be found in foods like onions, apples, broccoli, and berries. Ginger is also a good food to include in your diet if you suffer from arthritis—it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent while helping reduce pain.

Additional Tips

For those looking to ease arthritis symptoms through diet, you may be surprised at how many foods can help. Here are a few of our favorites: Seafood: Fish is one of nature’s healthiest foods. Not only does it contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, but also collagen and gelatin (which together form joint cartilage). Grapes: There’s nothing particularly special about grapes; they just happen to be loaded with antioxidants, which reduce inflammation in joints.