Joint pain occurs when an injury, activity or illness such as arthritis causes inflammation in one or more of your joints. A survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2006 showed that roughly 30 percent of adults experience joint pain within a 30-day period. In addition to resting impaired joints, physical therapy, ice packs, medications and particular foods may help improve your symptoms. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that provide potent disease-fighting properties. Vitamins C and A, antioxidants prevalent in fruits and vegetables, may help alleviate chronic joint pain associated with diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, according to a "Nutrition Science News" report published in January 1999. To increase your intake of these nutrients, incorporate colorful fruits and vegetables -- such as berries, citrus fruits, mangos, papayas, cantaloupe, tomatoes, leafy greens, carrots, squash and sweet potatoes -- into your meals and snacks routinely. Though fresh varieties are optimal, frozen, dried and canned fruit stored in natural juices provide secondary options.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, mackerel, flounder and sardines, provide rich amounts of omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats that promote positive heart health and brain function. Omega-3 fats also provide anti-inflammatory benefits, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and may help ease arthritic pain. Fatty fish also provides nutritious alternatives to saturated fat sources, such as red meat, which may exacerbate your symptoms. Consume fatty fish regularly, using low-fat cooking techniques, such as grilling, baking and broiling, for maximum benefits.
Nuts, Seeds and Plant-Based Oils
Nuts, seeds and plant-based oils provide unsaturated fats that promote cardiovascular health, nutrient absorption and brain function. Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil and walnuts and walnut oil are some of the only plant-based foods that provide rich amounts of omega-3 fats. Vitamin E-rich foods may also help reduce inflammation, according to the "Nutrition Science News" report. Valuable sources of vitamin E include almonds, almond butter, wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, safflower oil, peanuts, peanut butter, hazelnuts and corn oil. Replace saturated fat sources, such as butter and cheeses, with nuts, seeds and plant-based oils regularly in meals and snacks for heightened benefits.
