Getting an arthritis diagnosis is a life-changing event. In some ways it’s like getting married, losing your job or finding out that you’re going to be a parent: From that point forward, things will be different.
You may worry that pain and discomfort are going to be your new normal, and that’s devastating. But what if changing your lifestyle could dramatically change the outcome? Recent studies show that inflammation, joint pain, gout and arthritis are linked to the foods we eat. So, what does the pain in your joints have to do with the food on your plate? Turns out, plenty!
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, genders and races can have arthritis and it is one of the leading causes of disability.
The trouble maker? Uric Acid. Uric Acid is a natural waste product from the digestion of foods that contain purines, such as processed foods, alcohol, sugar, refined carbohydrates, and red meat. If you consume too much of these foods your body won’t be able to dissolve this acid fast enough, which will then cause the Uric Acid to pile up in your body and form crystals in your joints. Ouch!
As we get older our body’s ability to flush out Uric Acid drastically declines. Research studies show that if you are over 45 you need to be extremely careful when eating high Uric Acid-producing foods.
So, keep eating the wrong foods and you’re stuck with joint pain. Start eating the right foods and your discomfort fades away. Simple as that.
We’ve narrowed it down to the tastiest top 10 foods to fight inflammation and boost your immune system in your fight against arthritis:
- Fatty fish. Salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout are high in Omega-3 fatty acids and have potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that fatty fish reduces the risk of dying from inflammatory diseases with 44%.
- Studies show that those who ate more garlic had a reduced risk of arthritis, largely due to the strong anti-inflammatory properties.
- This gnarly root in its fresh, powdered, or dry form may aid in reducing the symptoms of arthritis.
- The phytonutrients in broccoli fight off inflammation in the joints, respiratory system, colon and more.
- Spinach is high in kaempferol, which has been shown to decrease the effects of the inflammatory agents associated with arthritis.
- Olive oil. Researchers suggest that this might explain why there is a reduced risk of chronic diseases in Mediterranean countries. Olive oil has proven to reduce inflammation associated with a lower risk of arthritis.
- Blue Berries. Antioxidants, vitamins and minerals are crammed into each serving, which may account for their unique ability to decrease inflammation.
- Grapes are nutrient-dense, high in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties.
- Nuts play an important part in modulating inflammation. It contains Omega-3 fats, antioxidants, vitamins, dietary fibre and magnesium.
- Green tea is rich in flavonoids that fight inflammation.
The bottom line: Diet can play a major role in the severity and the symptoms of this disease.
So, focus on what you can do by taking control of your arthritis today.
Source: creakyjoints.org, healthline.com, truthorigens.co.za, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, arthritis.org, everydayhealth.com, promotion.harmonichealth.co.za, medicalnewstoday.com, ibji.com, arthritis.org.za, westerncape.gov.za
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
