Arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints. In this condition, the joints swell up, turn tender, and the patient experiences a lot of pain. The condition turns more severe with age, and there are two main types of arthritis that can affect a person: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Arthritis restricts joint movement and causes great pain and stiffness in the joints. It can affect children and adults of both genders, and one should seek treatment immediately when the symptoms manifest to prevent further complications. Although there is no cure for the condition, treatment can help manage it and provide relief. The top foods to manage arthritis pain can help alleviate the pain associated with this debilitating condition.
Foods that can reduce the pain
Certain foods can be included in your diet to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. Some other foods help boost the immune system and fortify the bones in your body. Here’s a list of the top foods to manage arthritis pain:
- Fish
Certain species of fish like tuna, salmon, herring, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids that help combat inflammation.
- Soy foods
If you don’t prefer fish, you can try soybeans as they are rich in protein and contain a low amount of fats. Soybeans are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help combat inflammation.
- Dairy products
Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk are low in fat and contain high amounts of vitamin D and calcium, which make the bones strong and sturdy. Vitamin D and calcium deficiency can lead to bone disorders, so these nutrients should not be excluded from your diet.
- Green tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation of the joints. Joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis can be alleviated by antioxidants.
- Garlic
Inflammation of the joints caused by arthritis can be controlled by including garlic in your diet. This food has properties that boost the immune system and help fight inflammation.
- Broccoli
Broccoli contains sulforaphane, which may help deter the formation of a cell that aids in the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Ginger
Ginger has properties that restrict the production of inflammation-inducing substances.
Symptoms of arthritis
Arthritis causes great pain and discomfort, but some foods can help patients to manage the pain. The above-mentioned foods help alleviate the following symptoms of this condition:
- Stiffness of the joints
Arthritis patients commonly experience stiffness in the joints after sleeping or sitting for a long time. This stiffness may last for a few minutes or hours, depending on the type of arthritis.
- Swelling
The joints often swell up and appear bigger, and the condition worsens with time.
- Restricted motion
Joint movements may get restricted due to pain and inflammation.
- Redness
The skin near the joints may turn red.
- Fever
Light fever may also be experienced by patients.
