If you're over the age of 45, you're more likely to be afflicted with joint pain than your younger counterparts. Joint pain may result from an injury, a condition such as arthritis, bursitis, lupus or an infection, according to MedlinePlus.com. Overusing your joint, or poor mechanics, can also trigger joint pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are common treatments; however, some foods in your kitchen may also provide relief.
Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids provide several health benefits, including relief from joint pain. In one study, which was presented at the 2004 American College of Nutrition Symposium on Advances in Clinical Nutrition, 120 patients were treated with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil for low-back and neck pain caused by arthritis or disc disease. Fifty-nine percent of the study group experienced less joint pain, and 68 percent no longer had to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Unlike NSAIDs that can cause stomach upset and other adverse reactions, the omega-3 fatty acids did not produce any side effects.
Cherries
These nutrient-rich foods have shown promise in relieving painful inflammation. In one study conducted by the ARS Western Human Nutrition Research Center, researchers wanted to find out if Bing cherries could be a useful treatment for a painful form of arthritis called gout. Although gout is far more common in men than women, they recruited 10 healthy women to eat 45 cherries for breakfast. The cherry-supplemented diet lowered levels of substances in the blood that cause pain and inflammation in the joints---urate, nitric oxide and C-reactive protein.
Turmeric
The spice turmeric, which gives curry its yellow color, has a long history as an Ayurvedic remedy for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Turmeric's active ingredient is curcumin. In a study conducted at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, researchers studied the effects of three major curcuminoids---curcumin-related substances---in turmeric root. The curcuminoid extract was able block a chemical that contributes to inflammation in the joint. Spice up your meals with turmeric to take advantage of this natural pain reliever.
Vitamin-C Foods
Foods rich in this nutrient help to treat inflammation and pain in the joints, and prevent rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals that attack joints. It's also a building block of collagen, which is the primary substance in joint cartilage and bones. However, too much vitamin C can make joint pain and arthritis worse. To make sure you don't overdo it, the Arthritis Foundation recommends getting vitamin C from food sources such as berries, red peppers and citrus fruits.
References
- MedlinePlus: Joint Pain
- University of Pittsburgh: Natural Alternatives to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Relieve
- USDA Agricultural Research Service: Fresh Cherries May Help Arthritis Sufferers
- Science Daily: Turmeric Prevents Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Arthritis Today: Vitamin C Amount
