Dietary Considerations For People With Arthritis

Recall in the last blog post we talked about arthritis, what it is, the common types.

We enumerated lifestyle changes, which include weight management, regular exercise, balanced diet, quitting smoking, taking alcohol in moderation as some of the ways you can manage and ultimately eradicate the excruciating experience of the pain that comes with the disease.

Today, we will discuss further on some nutritional considerations you need to put in mind when in this condition. These foods help fight the inflammation caused by arthritis.

Fruits and Veggies: Focus on colours when going for fruit and veggies. Fruits and Veggies such as blueberries, apples, Avocados, carrots, spinach, and kale are packed with natural antioxidants and polyphenols that help fight inflammation.

Nuts: Studies have shown that nuts contain a healthy kind of fat. They may improve and balance fatty acids in your bloodstream. Almonds, walnuts, pine nuts are good choices.

Pulses: Include dried beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Pulses are rich in fibre and magnesium, and magnesium has been proven to help reduce inflammation. They are also loaded with antioxidants and healthy proteins. In fact, sprouting peas are so nutritious.

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Whole grains: Whole grains which have all the three parts complete- the bran, endosperm and germ.

They are good sources of fibre and nutrients such as magnesium and potassium. Whole grains have also been linked with the ability to control weight. Examples of whole grains are brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, pasta, to mention a few.

Fish: This is one of the best anti-inflammatory diets. According to Healthline.com, studies show that taking 600 to 1,000 mg of fish oil daily eases joint stiffness, tenderness, pain and swelling. You get these nutrients from fishes like salmon, tuna, sardines, scallops amongst others.

Natural herbs and spices: Research has shown that certain herbs and spices have anti-inflammatory properties. Examples are turmeric, with its Curcumin ingredient, ginger, garlic, rosemary, cinnamon, basil, and thyme. The Rida herbal teas- Eucalyptus and artemisia also boast of strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

If you maintain a good lifestyle and healthy diet, you can significantly manage and eventually eradicate pain and maintain a good quality of life, however, do not assume any improvement in your symptoms is due to your choice of food or changes in your diet. Always visit your physician.