Arthritis: Doctor gives advice on best foods to help ease pain
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Arthritis is a very common condition, and it’s one of the most common long-term medical conditions in the UK. Making some diet swaps is one of the easiest way to avoid joint pain.
More than 10 million people have been diagnosed with arthritis in the UK.
Osteoarthritis accounts for the majority of patients, which is where the smooth cartilage lining the joints is gradually worn away.
Rheumatoid arthritis, meanwhile, affects about 400,000 people in the UK.
It’s an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells lining joints.
If you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis, there are some certain foods that might help to relieve your symptoms.
Oil
Virgin olive oil is packed full of heart-healthy fats, which has similar properties to common anti-inflammatory medications, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Avocado and safflower oils have cholesterol-lowering properties, it added.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the best vegetables for arthritis patients, it said.
It contains a compound known as sulforaphane, which has been claimed to slow the progression of arthritis pain.
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Dairy
“Low-fat dairy products, like milk, yogurt and cheese are packed with calcium and vitamin D, both found to increase bone strength,” said the Arthritis Foundation.
“Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, and it has been shown to boost the immune system.
“If dairy doesn’t agree with you, aim for other calcium and vitamin D-rich foods like leafy green vegetables.”
Dairy foods are particularly helpful for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis patients.
Citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons and grapefruit are all rich in vitamin C.
Getting the right amount of vitamin C helps to protect against inflammatory arthritis, while also maintaining bone health.
Beans
It said: “Beans are packed with fibre, a nutrient that helps lower C-reactive protein. Beans are also an excellent [and inexpensive] source of protein, which is important for muscle health.
“Some beans are rich in folic acid, magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium, all known for their heart and immune system benefits. Look for red beans, kidney beans and pinto beans.”
But, while there are some foods that help to relieve joint pain, some foods can aggravate it.
It’s best to steer clear of anything with added sugars or gluten, nutritionists have claimed.
Alcohol could also worsen arthritis symptoms – particularly those with either osteoarthritis or gout.
If you’re worried about your arthritis diet, you should consider speaking to a doctor or a nutritionist.
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