Improve Your Fun Level With Arthritis-Friendly Foods
By Donna Stark
There are plenty of things in this world that are truly heartbreaking, but in terms of getting together with loved ones and sharing experiences, none is as heartbreaking as watching the one you love sit on the sidelines because arthritis pain happens to be rearing its ugly head that day. If this happens a lot to you or to someone you love, you know the struggle is real. The struggle to walk, to dance, or even just to stand can be so overwhelming, that many just choose to avoid it altogether by sitting on the side and holding the bags and purses for everyone else. Well, it's time to put those bags down and join the others, wouldn't you say? It's time to get a step ahead of your arthritis, and you can start doing so today at the most basic level ... with your diet.
Ideal Food for Arthritis Sufferers
If you suffer from arthritis, choosing the right kinds of food to incorporate into your diet is vital to your overall health. We all know that eating processed foods full of sugar and fat can lead to weight gain and added stress on the body's joints, so avoid those as much as you can and stick to whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and heart-healthy fats instead. Take a look at some of these arthritis-friendly food suggestions.
- Fatty fish - Certain types of fish, such as salmon and tuna, are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can help fight inflammation
- Dairy - Low-fat dairy products packed with calcium and Vitamin D can help to increase the strength in your bones and joints
- Fruit rich in Vitamin C - Vitamin C is an essential component of your diet that helps slow down the progression of osteoarthritis, so throw some extra oranges, strawberries, pineapple, or kiwis into your grocery cart
- Broccoli - Rich in Vitamins K and C, broccoli is another good choice for your joints because it also contains a compound that helps to fight the progression of osteoarthritis
- Garlic - Garlic also contains a compound that can alleviate arthritis pain, so even if your significant other doesn't appreciate this suggestion, your body will
- Green tea - Full of antioxidants that reduce inflammation, green tea is a great way to improve the health of your joints and stay adequately hydrated in the process
- Grains - Whole grains found in foods such as oatmeal, brown rice, and barley contain a protein that can help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis
Enjoying Life With Your Loved Ones
It's time to focus on your diet so that you can actually join in and enjoy all of those experiences with your loved ones. A healthy diet is a no-brainer to begin with, but to reduce your pain and have fun with the family, a healthy diet that is arthritis-friendly is what you should aim for!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wheaton, Ill.