For many years, it has been said that certain foods reduce pain and joint inflammation from arthritis. Researchers continue to investigate whether foods and spices actually may play a role in relieving joint pain and, if so, how they work.
Healthy eating which includes consuming lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds help your joints. Fruits, veggies and whole grains are natural inflammation fighters that can also help control your weight. It’s important to stay at a healthy weight to ease up some of the stress on the joints. For every 1 pound of weight you lose, you reduce the load on your knee joint by 4 pounds.
Here are some foods that fight joint pain:
Salmon
Loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and is considered heart-healthy and may relieve joint tenderness if you have rheumatoid arthritis. Other varieties of cold-water fish, including tuna, sardines, and mackerel, are good choices, too. Avoid tilapia and catfish, though: Their higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids may promote inflammation.
Blueberries
These little juicy gems have lots of phytonutrients that may fight inflammation and lessen pain. If it’s not berry season, frozen blueberries can have the same or even more nutrients than fresh. Other fruits with antioxidants and polyphenols, including strawberries and oranges, can have a similar soothing effect.
Ginger
A staple of traditional medicine, this pungent root is probably best known for its anti-nausea, stomach-soothing properties. Ginger can also fight pain including aching joints from arthritis as well as menstrual cramps. One study found ginger capsules worked as well as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen at relieving period pain.
Virgin Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil contains lubricin which keeps joints sliding smoothly and protects cartilage from breaking down. It might help people with osteoarthritis. Stick to lower temperatures when you cook with olive oil so you don’t lose any of its many benefits.
Mint
Peppermint oil relieves the painful cramps, gas, and bloating that are the hallmarks of irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint tea is a good soother for occasional tummy upset. In early research, Brazilian mint tea made from the plant Hyptnis crenata has been as effective as a prescription painkiller.