The connection between diet and chronic disease is long-established. One of the most noteworthy, landmark statements on this fundamental health link came from the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2002. The WHO panel concluded that a poor diet was a major risk factor for a plethora of major diseases, from obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer to osteoporosis, bone fractures, and dental diseases.
For those suffering from osteoarthritis (OA), it is wise to note how critical the diet is to strong health and to adjust their meals to include better foods (ones that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, for instance). In so doing, OA patients can reduce their symptoms.
6 super foods to treat osteoarthritis
Here are a few foods that are nutritionally dense, with compounds that will counteract inflammation and help prevent progression of the osteoarthritis:
- Fish – Get 3 to 4 ounces of fish twice per week to reduce inflammation via omega-3 fatty acids. Fish that are high in this essential compound include herring, mackerel, salmon and tuna. (While fish can be a great defense against osteoarthritis pain, do not overdo them since they are typically high in mercury.)
- Dark green, leafy vegetables – Antioxidants help to deactivate free radicals before they are able to set off a cascade leading to injured cell membranes, cartilage, fats, and proteins. When you have arthritis, antioxidants are particularly important because they block cartilage degeneration. Broccoli, spinach, spring greens, and parsley are example veggies that are high in antioxidant micronutrients including vitamin C, calcium, carotenoids, and magnesium.
- Blueberries – Like dark green, leafy vegetables, berries are high in antioxidants. Blueberries are especially powerful, according to a study from the USDA's Ronald Prior, PhD. Dr. Prior found that the antioxidants were higher in wild blueberries than they were in strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and plums.
- Bananas & plantains – These food choices help with their high potassium and magnesium. Both nutrients improve bone density, while the latter mineral relieves OA symptoms.
- Olive oil – Anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants, and mono-saturated fats are all plentiful in olive oil. There is substantial research showing that regular olive oil can help prevent both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Pineapple – Coaches of professional sports teams have sometimes advised athletes to eat pineapple as a way to expedite injury recovery, thanks to its anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain.
Conclusion
Are you suffering from osteoarthritis? Introducing more of the above foods should help. Beyond the way that you eat, there are also critical medical and chiropractic strategies that can bring you relief.
At Envista Medical, we use detailed care and direction to establish a treatment plan that will prepare your body against further pain, injury and illness.