Bursitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs that help reduce friction between bones and tendons during movement. This condition can cause pain, limitation of range of motion and sensitivity to touch. Chronic stress, injuries and allergic reactions to foods can contribute to bursitis. Diet cannot cure bursitis, but certain foods may help heal bursa and reduce inflammation. Check with your physician before changing your diet to address bursitis.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily found in fatty fish, such as tuna, salmon and mackerel, as well as in fish oil supplements. Some plant-based foods, such as flax seeds and walnuts, also contain these essential fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation, reducing pain and stiffness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of excessive bleeding -- talk to your doctor before adding foods rich in these essential fatty acids to your diet.
Zinc-rich Foods
Zinc is a mineral that may help activate enzymes in your muscles and tendons that reduce inflammation. This mineral is also essential for the repair of tendons, bursa and bone cells, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Boost your intake of dietary zinc by consuming foods such as eggs, lentils, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, alfalfa, oysters and kelp.
Vitamin C-rich Foods
Vitamin C may boost immune system function, allowing your body to destroy bacteria and virus cells that can damage bursa. This vitamin is also an antioxidant that may prevent free-radical damage to bursa and tendon cells. Vitamin C offers anti-inflammatory benefits for the reduction of pain and swelling associated with bursitis, according to Balch. It may also stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that helps form connective tissue. Tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, grapefruit, mangoes, oranges and apples are rich sources of vitamin C.
Pineapple
Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help reduce inflammation characteristic of bursitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Avoid opting for canned or frozen pineapple, however -- freezing and processing may inactivate bromelain, says Balch.
Vitamin E-rich Foods
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant -- it may block the oxygen supply to free radicals, preventing cellular damage to bursa and tendons, according to Balch. Vitamin E may also improve blood circulation to tendons and bursa, increasing the availability of nutrients necessary for cellular repair. Olive oil, almonds, hazelnuts, kale, chickpeas and brown rice contain vitamin E.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bursitis
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