5 foods arthritis sufferers should eat

There is no special diet or food that can cure arthritis, but studies suggest adding or avoiding certain foods and supplements may help to lessen pain and inflammation. Some studies suggest arthritis may be helped by dietary changes. But, it is always necessary to consult your doctor or dietician before changing your diet.

Some people think dairy products can cause arthritis while cider vinegar and honey will heal the disease.

Others believe acidic fruits such as oranges, lemons and vegetables like potatoes and peppers can worsen the symptoms.

Above all, a healthy and well-balanced diet will benefit everyone with or without arthritis.

Below are some foods that is believed to help arthritis sufferers and that they should include in their diets:

Omega-3 fatty acids: It has been known that a diet high in fish helps people with rheumatoid arthritis due to presence of omega-3 fatty acids that soothes inflammation throughout the body. Also, one osteoarthritis-related study has shown that fish oil supplements aid both cartilage and bone in guinea pigs. Omega-3 fats are found in salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout, flaxseeds and walnuts.

Tart cherry juice: Studies have shown drinking tart cherry juice twice a day can reduce muscle pain. One study of 20 women found that taking about 10.5 ounces twice daily reduced biomarkers of inflammation considerably.

Spices: Health experts recommend cooking with a lot of ginger and turmeric as both the spices are found to be helpful in soothing inflammation.

Broccoli: Broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables were shown to protect against arthritis development in a study. Although this study focused on the chance of arthritis development rather than pain management, having these vegetables in your diet would help.

Olive oil: Diets that are packed with olive oil, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been found to lessen pain and stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Olive oil is useful in reducing inflammation because of Oleic acid (a fatty acid naturally found in various animal and vegetable fats and oils), which has polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids (both are antioxidants).