Arthritis is a relatively common inflammatory condition that affects the joints. There are over 100 types of arthritis, the most common one being osteoarthritis. This condition is painful and it limits the mobility. The pain, stiffness and discomfort can be alleviated using medications, but there are also certain kinds of food that can reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
The “good” fats
Today anyone who has at least some interest in health and nutrition is aware that there are different types of fat. Some of them are “bad” and some are “good”. People mistakenly think that the fat should be completely avoided, which is absolutely not true. Fat is necessary for good health but it should be consumed in moderation, focusing on the beneficial kinds of fat. Cholesterol, of course, should be avoided. Omega-3 essential fatty acids, on the other hand, are highly recommended. It can be found in fish, flaxseed and linseed. Tryptophan is another beneficial substance for arthritis sufferers. It can be found in soy, peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition. Naturally, its symptoms can be alleviated by introducing anti-inflammatory substances, which usually come from medications. However, there are foods that possess the same qualities and they should be consumed as much as possible. Fresh fruit and nuts are such foods, and so are dried fruits, especially dried apricots. Grape skin also has anti-inflammatory properties and grapes should be consumed in abundance. Other anti-inflammatory foods include ginger, garlic and turmeric.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are compounds found in plant food sources, meaning fruits and vegetables. They have antioxidant properties and they slow down degenerative processes in the body, which is important for joints that are affected by arthritis. Some of the foods rich in flavonoids include soy, black beans, apples, onions, carrots and green tea.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are very important for good health. They search for free radicals and destroy them before they can damage the cells and the tissues. A person who suffers from arthritis should make sure to include plenty of sources of antioxidants, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, especially oranges, grapefruit, broccoli and avocado. Berries, such as raspberries, blackberries and blueberries are also full of antioxidants, not to mention the vitamin content.
Vitamins
No disease can be cured if the intake of vitamins is not appropriate. It is, of course, better to assure the vitamin intake through fresh food, but in some cases eating plenty of fruit and vegetables is simply not enough and it is necessary to take supplements. The most important vitamins for arthritis are C, D E and B.
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