5 Healthy Foods to Manage Arthritis

5 Healthy Foods to Manage Arthritis

Arthritis is a health condition that affects your body’s joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation in them. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, or gender. Although you need to get diagnosed and treated for this condition, you can include certain foods in your diet to manage the symptoms. These superfoods are best for arthritis:

1. Soybeans
Soybeans are one of the healthiest foods for your heart. You can include edamame or tofu in your diet, as they provide fiber and protein and are low in fat. Soybeans also contain omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and are especially suitable for people who have rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Oils
Oils are necessary for good health. However, instead of choosing corn or vegetable oil, you should opt for olive or canola oil as these have a healthy balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Extra virgin olive oil also consists of oleocanthal in high amounts, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also suitable for heart health. When used alongside vitamin D, olive oil is found to protect against bone loss. Other oils like avocado and safflower are also healthy and lower cholesterol levels.

3. Walnuts
This one of the most nutrient-dense food that you can consume. Walnuts are rich in compounds that can help reduce inflammation caused by arthritis. Studies have shown that consuming walnuts reduces inflammation markers in the body. These nuts are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. So they help manage the symptoms effectively.

4. Berries
Berries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which make them a perfect anti-inflammatory option. Studies show that people consuming two servings of strawberries every week have a 14% lesser chance of inflammation. Berries also consist of high quantities of rutin and quercetin, plant compounds that provide many health benefits. You can choose from a diverse selection of berries like blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries to enjoy these benefits.

5. Dark leafy vegetables
Studies show that consuming vegetables can reduce inflammation in your body. These superfoods are best for arthritis as leafy green vegetables, especially spinach and kale, contain many nutrients that can decrease inflammation. Spinach also has antioxidants and plant compounds that reduce inflammation and fight arthritis. Plus, it has kaempferol, an antioxidant that lessens the effects of inflammatory agents. Other veggies like broccoli, kale, spinach, and collard greens are rich in vitamins E and C. Vitamin E defends the body against pro-inflammatory molecules, while vitamin C helps your body build collagen – a crucial cartilage component that helps make your joints flexible.

These days, many people opt for expensive medication and surgeries to treat arthritis. But experts suggest that these superfoods are best for mild to moderate arthritis as they reduce symptoms significantly.