The effectiveness of certain foods in reducing pain and inflammation of the joints has been reported in several studies in recent years. By supplying your body the nutrients necessary for preserving the bones, ligaments and cartilages in the joints, these foods can arrest progression of arthritis.
Food Cures For Arthritis
Calcium Rich Foods
Progression of osteoarthritis, which occurs due to rapid loss of bone density, can be slowed down by increasing consumption of calcium rich foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, fish with bones, kale, broccoli, nuts and seeds. Loss of bone density is common in older women after menopause.
It may also occur following prolonged intake of steroids. Prolonged inflammation also boosts bone loss. People suffering from arthritis should consume at least 1200mg of calcium each day. According to the Institute of Medicine, up to 3000 mg of calcium can be consumed daily.
Vitamin D facilitates absorption of calcium in the stomach and the intestines. It also supports growth and development of the bones. Vitamin D plays an important role in suppressing activities of pro-inflammatory chemicals and proteins that induce inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
Although, exposure to sunlight stimulates the natural vitamin D synthesis process, risk of skin cancer and fear of skin tanning often force arthritis patients to avoid the sun. Aging also inhibits the natural vitamin D synthesis process. Arthritis patients have a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, which can be prevented by consuming dietary supplements and foods fortified with vitamin D.
The Institute of Medicine recommends consuming 600 IU of vitamin D daily up to the age of 70. After 70, a person needs 100 IU excess vitamin D per day. However, to treat arthritis, you can consume up to 4000 IU of vitamin D per day. Vitamin D is found in fish liver oil, fatty fish, egg yolk, beef liver, cheese and mushrooms. Milk, yogurt, cereals and juices fortified with vitamin D are other dietary sources of the sunshine vitamin.
Vitamin C Rich Foods
Vitamin C is essential for maintaining healthy joints. In a study reported in the British Journal of Rheumatology, researchers claimed that rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with vitamin C supplements reported significant improvement in the symptoms of arthritis. According to USDA, adult men and women should consume 90 mg and 75 mg of vitamin C each day. To fight the symptoms of arthritis, add citrus fruits, bell peppers, apples and berries to your diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Rich Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, fish liver oil, flaxseed, linseed oil, olive oil and walnuts are noted for their anti-inflammatory property.
In addition to reducing the pain and inflammation of the arthritis-ridden joints, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce dependence on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Grape seed is beneficial for arthritis patients. It contains a powerful antioxidant compound called proanthocyanidin, which can prevent chronic pain and degeneration of cartilage in arthritis patients.