Arthritis and Good Nutrition

Arthritis can be helped—if not prevented. It all starts with learning what is good to eat and what to avoid. We've already discussed avoiding pro-inflammatory foods. It makes sense then, that what you need to eat is anti-inflammatory foods.

You can start with omega-3 fatty acids. These are the healthiest fats for people with arthritis to eat. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oils, which have a lubricating and anti-inflammatory effect and have been shown to reduce or eliminate pain. The next oil option is extra-virgin olive oil, which contains a natural compound called olecanthal. This compound has been known to prevent arthritic conditions from developing.  

Foods that contain antioxidants can also help to relieve arthritis. Antioxidants include vitamin C, carotenes and bioflavonoids. They protect the body from the effects of cell-damaging free radicals and work against inflammation.

The best way to get antioxidants into your body is to consume vitamin C, which can be found in many fruits and vegetables including guava, pineapples, papayas, lemons (in water), broccoli, kale, potatoes and brussels sprouts. Beta-carotene, another antioxidant, can be found in vegetables like carrots, kale, turnip greens, pumpkins and spinach.

Besides antioxidants, you need vitamin D. Both sunlight (which the body needs so it can produce vitamin D) and supplementing with vitamin D have been shown to help with arthritis. The spice turmeric also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have preventative and pain-reducing benefits.

If you want a pain-free life and want to reduce the impact of arthritis, eat a good diet of fruits and vegetables.

Dr Marcus Chacos

Chiropractor and Founder of the Natural Treatment of Arthritis Institute

Author of The Arthritis Soluiton

www.natural-treatment-of-arthritis-institute.com.au