Joint pain, also called arthralgia or arthritis, is a common medical complaint characterized by discomfort, swelling, aching or general pain in or around your joints. Joint pain varies in severity and may stem from injuries, overuse of a particular joint, or illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or tendinitis. In addition to medical treatment, such as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs, physical therapy, ice packs, particular foods and nutrients may help reduce your symptoms.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide an assortment of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help protect your body from infections and disease. According to a "Nutrition Science News" article from January 1999, the antioxidant vitamin C may reduce cartilage loss and reduce the progression of osteoarthritis. Antioxidants may also help reduce tissue damage associated with chronic joint pain. Valuable sources of vitamin C include red bell peppers, citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, baked potatoes with skin and sweet potatoes. Additional antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables include cantaloupe, guava, mangoes, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, pumpkin, red grapes, red plums, pears and apples. Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals and snacks routinely for maximum benefits.
Dairy Products
Dairy products provide significant amounts of protein and nutrients, such as vitamin D, B vitamins and calcium. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, consuming 1,500mg of calcium per day can help heal muscles and connective tissue -- primary causes of joint pain associated with tendinitis. To meet your calcium needs, aim for three or more servings of dairy products or calcium-rich equivalents daily. Consuming airy products in modest amounts throughout each day rather than consuming all of your calcium at once enhances absorption. Examples of calcium-rich, nutritious dairy products include skim and low-fat milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream and hard cheeses. Choose low-fat versions most often to prevent excessive saturated fat intake.
Fatty Fish, Flaxseed and Walnuts
Fatty fish, flaxseed and walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats your body requires and must obtain from dietary sources. Omega-3 fats promote positive heart health and brain function and may help alleviate pain and inflammation linked with arthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For maximum benefits, incorporate fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, halibut, flounder and sardines, and ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts or walnut oil into your diet regularly. Choose fish over red meat, which may exacerbate inflammation, most often for added benefits.
