According to MayoClinic.com, arthritis is defined as the inflammation of one or more joints of the body such as knees and wrists. This condition can commonly be treated with over-the-counter analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents such as Tylenol, Aleve and Advil. In addition to these medications, introducing anti-inflammatory foods into your daily diet may help reduce the pain and swelling of arthritis.
Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to Arthritisvic, the most beneficial foods arthritis sufferers can consume are those rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids work to decrease inflammation by decreasing the amount of enzymes in the body that destroy bone cartilage. Common foods with a high content of omega-3 fatty acids are salmon, sardines, anchovies and walnuts.
Foods Rich in Boron
According to Alexander G. Schauss, Ph.D., FACN, Senior Director of the Natural and Medicinal Products Division of the American Institute for Biosocial and Medical Research, AIBMR, the mineral boron is critical to bone and joint health because it assists the body in absorption of calcium. Increasing the amount of boron in one's daily diet can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. In addition, increased consumption of boron may reduce pain and inflammation suffered by individuals already diagnosed with arthritis. Foods that are high in boron concentrations are apples, red grapes, almonds, peanuts and hazelnuts.
Foods Rich in Carotenes
According to MSNBC, a diet rich in carotenes can be beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis. Carotenes are antioxidant nutrients that are found in several fruits and vegetables. The carotene called beta cryptoxanthin may help to prevent the occurrence of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Foods with high beta cryptoxanthin concentrations include pumpkin, tangerines, red peppers, corn and oranges.
Foods Rich in Bioflavonoids
According to MSNBC, a diet rich in bioflavonoids can be beneficial to individuals suffering from arthritis. Bioflavonoids are antioxidant nutrients that rid the body of free radicals that cause cell damage in the body. The compound quercetin is of particular interest due to the fact that its effects are similar to those of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Foods that are rich in quercetin are onions, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, blueberries and red delicious apples.
References
- Today Health: Fight Arthritis With These Foods
- Arthritis Victoria: Healthy Eating and Arthritis
- Arthritis Treatment and Relief: Foods To Relieve Arthritis Pain
- Relieve Arthritis Joint Pain: Healing Foods For Arthritis
- MayoClinic.com: Arthritis
- Vitamin Research Products; Under-Appreciated Mineral Enhances Cognition, Bone and Joint Health; Alexander G. Schauss, Ph.D., FACN
