Joint pain is a common occurrence as you get older. It can be caused by accidents, sports injuries, being overweight or conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. While you may turn to over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, Nutrition Science News: The Journal of Natural Products Research and Innovation, points out that some foods act as natural pain relievers that target the causes of joint pain, rather than just masking the symptoms.
Ginger
This tasty, pungent root has a long reputation as a healing food used for treating conditions such as nausea and colds. It can also be an effective pain reliever. According to the magazine Chemistry World, ginger---which contains active ingredients called gingerols, zingerone and shogaols---can fight spasms and inflammation. While it's best to eat fresh ginger to reap its pain-fighting benefits, you can also find ginger available in liquid extract or capsule form.
Fatty Fish
Essential fatty acids found in foods such as fatty fish, including mackerel, salmon and tuna, plays a key role in moderating joint inflammation that accompanies arthritis. Increasing these healthy fats in your diet can relieve both inflammation and pain. In a study presented at the 2004 American College of Nutrition Symposium on Advances in Clinical Nutrition, researchers revealed that omega-3 fatty acids were able to reduce lower back and neck pain caused by disc disease and arthritis in 59 percent of patients. Taking supplements of essential fatty acids also enabled 68 percent of patients to stop using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Foods such as orange juice and berries can help to prevent or slow joint damage, relieving joint pain. They are rich in antioxidants that help to fight free radicals that attacking joint tissues. Also, a study published in the April 2008 issue of the journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage revealed that people with late-stage osteoarthritis have lower levels of antioxidants in their joint fluid. However, there's no proof that antioxidant-rich foods can effectively relieve rheumatoid arthritis pain.
Turmeric
This spice that gives curry its vibrant yellow color contains an active ingredient called curcumin that provides several benefits for your joints. According to Arthritis Today, a health magazine from the Arthritis Foundation, curcumin can help to reduce pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It also influences immune system activity to help prevent joint inflammation.
