Foods That Can Help Manage Arthritis Pain
By Paul Rothbart
About 58.5 million people in the U.S. have arthritis. That's nearly a quarter of the population. Its costs for lost wages and medical expenses total $303 billion annually. It is also the number one cause of employee disability. Osteoarthritis is the most common form followed by gout. Rheumatoid arthritis is less common but more debilitating. Arthritis causes aches in the joints and the pain can be severe enough to limit work and other activities. It is accompanied by swelling and inflammation. There isn't a cure for arthritis, but it can be managed to allow an active life. One of the things that sufferers can do is add these foods to their diets.
Foods With Sulfur
Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, bok choy, broccoli, and cauliflower, as well as onions, garlic, and asparagus, are loaded with the nutrient sulfur. Sulfur provides the body with methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a chemical that research has found reduces pain and inflammation in the joints. MSM mutes nerve impulses that transmit pain according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, fresh tuna, and shellfish are well-known for their health benefits. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that have natural anti-inflammatory properties. A study conducted in 2017 and published in Arthritis Care and Research found that consuming more fish reduces the levels of rheumatoid arthritis activity. Eating 3-4 ounces of fish twice a week and taking fish oil supplements can significantly reduce the inflammation and pain caused by arthritis.
Greens
Dark green leafy vegetables should be a part of the diet of anyone with arthritis. Greens such as spinach, kale, collards, and Swiss chard with antioxidants that fight free radicals that attack the body's cells Greens are also rich in calcium which helps strengthen bones. This nutritional combination can keep joints healthy and reduce arthritis pain.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits with their high Vitamin C content are always recommended for fighting colds. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that can fight free radicals as well as help the body create collagen which is an important part of bones. Eating oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits as well as drinking their juices, can lessen inflammation and relieve joint pain. Check with a doctor if you are on medications for your arthritis or heart as grapefruit can interfere with some of these drugs.
Arthritis is a common source of pain for Americans and has a negative impact on work and home life. The condition can be managed. See a doctor and try adding these foods to your diet.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Port Orange, Fla.