Manage Arthritis Pain Naturally: Your Anti-Arthritis Diet
Did you know that arthritis pain can often be managed naturally through proper nutrition? Making the right nutritional choices does not have to be a challenge. The key to managing your arthritis pain naturally is to choose foods with anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time, you must know which foods should be avoided. Your health and nutrition expert may devise a customized program that is right for you, and your diet can make a difference. The following is a two-step guide to fighting arthritis with food:
Choose These Foods For Your Anti-Arthritis Diet Plan
The key to arthritis management through better nutrition is to choose foods that may reduce inflammation, keep bones strong and joints fluid, while also helping to boost your immune system. Here are some good choices:
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Fruits: Choose fruits that are rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Eat more berries, as these are known to reduce free radicals that often increase inflammation. Fresh fruit is best, as it may retain more of the compounds that fight inflammation than some frozen choices. In addition, try incorporating fresh tart cherries into your diet, as these are also known to reduce inflammation.
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Vegetables: Aim for the green, leafy varieties, such as spinach, kale and broccoli. The antioxidants found in these green veggies may protect your cells from free radicals, thus reducing inflammation. Orange veggies such as carrots, sweet potatoes and bell peppers also contain antioxidants, so consume these as well. You might want to steam your veggies rather than boil them, as this may help retain the nutrients.
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Omega-3 And Fish Oil: Incorporate more fish into your diet, as the Omega-3 content helps fight inflammation. Good choices are salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. You might also ask your nutritionist or doctor about taking fish oil supplements. Keep in mind, if you take blood-thinning medication, fish oil supplements may not be advised, so consult with your physician.
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Beverages: To fight your arthritis pain naturally, you might want to drink more green tea or chamomile tea, as both contain anti-inflammatory properties. Also, fruit juices and fruit smoothies that are high in vitamin C are excellent choices.
Foods to Eliminate or Cut Back On
Just as certain foods may help fight your arthritis pain, there are some foods that may worsen your condition when consumed in excess. You might want to cut back on sugar, as well as refined, processed and fried foods, as doing so may help reduce inflammation. It should be noted that a nutritional plan is not intended as a cure for arthritis, but rather as a way to help you manage your symptoms. Also, follow your physician's orders and take your medications as prescribed. Contact a nutritionist, such as PK Newby, for more information.