Arthritis broadly refers to a form of inflammation of joints, and some of the most common symptoms of arthritis are aching, pain, stiffness and swelling in and around affected joints.
The two most common forms of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when body’s immune system attacks the joint tissues. This results into bone erosion once the cartilage between the joints is damaged.
Osteoarthritis is caused with wear and tear of both, large and small body joints.
The most vulnerable body parts that could be afflicted by arthritis are the feet, hands, the back and knees, and the disorder may be accompanied by loss of weight, difficulties in moving joints and lack of sleep.
Diet happens to be the single most important remedy to boost one’s immune system and also reduce inflammation around joints.
Let’s go through some of the foods which are most beneficial for arthritics:
1. Omega-3 Fats
Omega-3 fats play an important role in relieving arthritis pain. These work by reducing inflammation, and also the rate of production of enzymes that cause cartilage erosion.
Some of the best sources of Omega-3 fats are walnuts, hemp seeds and flax seeds.
2. Green Tea
If you normally consume black tea, you may choose to make a switchover to green tea for its cumulative benefits. Green tea is known to be vastly helpful in reducing pain and subsiding symptoms associated with arthritis, and this works in multiple ways to allow one to relieve the condition.
o Epigallocate-3-gallate, an antioxidant present in green tea lowers inflammatory rates.
o Antioxidants present in green tea also work towards preventing erosion of cartilage, allowing joints to sustain themselves longer.
o Similarly, these antioxidants help prevent the chemical chain which causes joint damage
3. Olive Oil:
Oleocanthal is a natural compound present in olive oil. This, along with monounsaturated fats present in the oil prevents arthritis inflammation.
Another mechanism by which olive oil helps manage arthritis is by ensuring effective weight management. Excess weight puts extra pressure on the joints, so it is always recommendable to use olive oil instead of vegetable oil while cooking.
4. Beta-Cryptoxanthin
Beta-Cryptoxanthin is a very powerful antioxidant, and some of the best sources of Beta-Cryptoxanthin are pumpkin, tangerine, papaya and collard greens. This particular antioxidant has shown to be greatly effective for prevention of arthritis.
Another very important source of Beta-Cryptoxanthin is orange juice, and one must drink a glass of orange juice everyday to reduce the risk of developing arthritis.
Proper arthritis management consuming would ease pain and reduce joint damage, while improving the quality of an individual’s life. Omega-3 fats, green tea, olive oil and beta-cryptoxanthin are some of the best foods for arthritis.