Bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of bursa, which are fluid-filled membranes that cushion bones at your joints. It typically causes joint pain, swelling, stiffness and redness. Repetitive motion or joint strain typically causes bursitis, but bacterial infections and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to this condition. Although diet should not replace medical attention for bursitis, certain dietary choices may help reduce symptoms.
Calcium-rich Foods
Calcium is a mineral most commonly associated with the prevention of bone-density loss, which can increase your risk of fractures and poor posture. However, calcium may also be beneficial for reducing bursitis symptoms. This mineral helps repair bursa, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It also improves the permeability of cell membranes, allowing connective tissues to absorb proteins for regeneration. Boost your intake of calcium by consuming low-fat dairy products, spinach, broccoli, asparagus, salmon and almonds.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are fats that your body cannot produce, so you must obtain them from foods or supplements. These fatty acids are found in tofu, tuna, salmon, walnuts, flax seeds, mackerel and herring. Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce production of chemicals in your body that contribute to inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may help relieve pain and stiffness associated with bursitis. However, essential fatty acids may thin your blood. Talk to your physician before increasing your intake of essential fatty acids if you have a clotting disorder or if you take prescription blood thinners.
Silicon-rich Foods
Silicon is a mineral that improves the production of collagen, which your body uses to repair connective tissue cells, according to Balch. This may help strengthen bursa to reduce inflammation and pain. Silicon may also boost immune system function, enhancing your body's ability to destroy bacteria and virus cells that can attack and damage bursa. This mineral is found in alfalfa, sweet peppers, whole-grain breads, brown rice, oatmeal, soybeans and kale.
Vitamin C-rich Foods
Vitamin C is well-known for its role in preventing cold and flu symptoms, but it may also help relieve symptoms associated with bursitis. Like silicon, vitamin C may improve immune system function. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may prevent lipids and free radical molecules from damaging bursa cells. This vitamin may also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, according to Balch. Strawberries, pomegranates, cantaloupe, mustard greens, broccoli, pineapple, oranges, radishes and kale are abundant sources of natural vitamin C. Pineapple may be a particularly effective vitamin C source for bursitis -- this fruit also contains bromelain, an inflammation-fighting enzyme.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bursitis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
