Chronic joint pain is enough to make even the best day frustrating, as it becomes difficult to go about daily life in the usual way. Joint pain is usually caused by inflammation in the joints and lead to conditions such as osteoporosis. While it is important to talk to a doctor if you are suffering from joint pain, there are also some foods you can incorporate into your diet in order to reduce this inflammation that causes pain. These foods, aren't a magic cure-all, but that can help alleviate some suffering.
Oranges
Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruit, camu-camu, kiwi, mango, and berries, can be beneficial for people suffering from joint pain. Antioxidants in vitamin C slow the development of arthritis, one of the main causes of joint pain. However, it is recommended to not take vitamin C supplements as this can have some negative effects.
Oily Fish
Oily fish like tuna, mackerel, salmon, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which work as an anti-inflammatory as well as a weight- and cholesterol-regulating compound. What's more, omega-3s are additionally linked to better skin, hair, and energy levels. Try incorporating oily fish into your diet a two or three times a week.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale, and cabbage contain a compound called sulforaphane. Research has shown that this compound helps slow down the damage being done to the joints in people with arthritis.
Garlic
Garlic, like its relatives onions and leeks contains a compound called diallyl disulfide. This compound prevents the cartilage in the body from breaking down, which can help to limit the effect of arthritis. People who regularly consume garlic also get arthritis at lower rates.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains the compound curcumin, which prevents the body's production of NF-KB, a protein associated with inflammation. Some research has been done on turmeric, which shows it may be beneficial in reducing inflammation, but more research still needs to be done. Turmeric is often incorporated into Indian food, such as curries, and has played a role in traditional Indian medicine.
These foods should help fight inflammation and may slow down arthritis. However, it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor about joint pain if you haven't done so already. Many more treatments are available to alleviate suffering. Click here to learn more about treating joint pain and other menopause symptoms.
Sources
- National Health Service. (2015). Arthritis. Retrieved November 26, 2015, from http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Arthritis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
- Arthritis Foundation. (2015). Six Food Choices to Help Ease Arthritis Pain. Retrieved November 26, 2015, from http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/anti-inflammatory/foods-to-help-ease-arthritis-pain.php