5 Foods That Help Manage Osteoarthritis

5 Foods That Help Manage Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a fairly common joint condition primarily affecting old people. The cartilage found at the end of two connected bones wears down in osteoarthritis, causing the bones to rub against each other. This leads to significant joint pain, mostly in the knees, hips, and hands. Old age is seen as the biggest risk factor for this ailment, with genetics, obesity, and joint injuries also increasing its likelihood.

Treatment consists of various medications and therapies geared toward pain reduction. Dietary changes and certain natural remedies are also advised as they produce a similar effect and help combat osteoarthritis. In this article, we’ll be looking at a few of these remedies in detail.

Ginger
Incorporating ginger in every meal or just eating it orally can prove useful for osteoarthritis patients. Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects which help reduce muscle pain and soreness. Studies have gone on to further prove that ginger, along with mastic, cinnamon and sesame oil can combat stiffness and osteoarthritis-related joint pain. The spice also helps address nausea and morning sickness.

Green Tea
Bioactive compounds such as polyphenols found in green tea reduce inflammations, prevent cellular damage, and help shield the cartilage from decay. The beverage also boosts the metabolic rate in the body, helping reduce fat which in turn leads to weight loss. It can be taken on a daily basis, although shouldn’t be consumed in excess amounts.

Omega-3-rich Foods
Foods that are rich in these essential fatty acids are extremely useful in relieving pain due to osteoarthritis. Omega-3 fights off inflammation by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances such as eicosanoids and cytokines. Sardines, soybeans, and walnuts are a few rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can be taken as supplements as well. These foods are considered one of the best natural remedies for osteoarthritis.

Turmeric
The yellow spice contains a wide range of compounds that prove useful for patients suffering from osteoarthritis. Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric and has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation around the affected joint. The fact that it comes without any side-effects is an added benefit, making it better than standard osteoarthritis medications. Turmeric additionally helps fight aging, which is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis. The spice is easy to incorporate and can be safely consumed in almost every meal of the day.

Vitamin-D-rich Foods
Patients suffering from osteoarthritis often have weak and brittle bones due to the continued friction in joints. Vitamin D can help address this issue as it helps strengthen bones, aids in muscle development, and fights off inflammation. Foods rich in this nutrient also helps lose weight, which, in turn, reduces the risk of osteoarthritis flare-ups and other serious health disorders. Furthermore, vitamin D supports the immunity system, thus keeping flare-ups to a bare minimum. Egg yolks, cheese, and salmon are all considered good sources of the nutrient and are great natural remedies for osteoarthritis.