(Natural News) Arthritis is a health condition that is characterized by the inflammation of the joints. Severe forms of arthritis can be debilitating, and may greatly hamper your mobility. However, there are ways to combat the inflammation brought on by this condition. If you have arthritis, you can help reduce inflammation in your body by eating a diet full of anti-inflammatory foods.
There are over 100 different types of arthritis. Many of these types are often associated with an increased risk of complications, such as osteoporosis, bone fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, congestive heart failure, anemia, hypertension, and many others. Arthritis can be treated with the help of exercise and physical therapy, but you can supplement these treatments with another natural remedy. The food you eat has a big impact on your body. If you eat a steady diet of food items with anti-inflammatory properties, you can help alleviate the symptoms of your arthritis. (Related: Papayas can be used to reduce inflammation across your entire body.)
Common foods with anti-inflammatory properties
Here are eight different types of common but useful foods that can help you reduce inflammation in your body:
- Colorful fruit. Foods that are rich in antioxidants typically have anti-inflammatory properties. One sign that the fruit is rich in antioxidants is its intense and vibrant colors. Try eating some dark blue and purple fruits, such as blackberries, plums, and grapes. Grapes contain anthocyanin compounds, which can help reduce inflammation. You can also eat fruits that are bright red, orange or yellow, such as apples, pineapples, and papayas. Additionally, the bright green avocado contains a compound that may reduce inflammation in young skin cells. Oranges are also an excellent source of vitamin C, which is another potent antioxidant.
- Dark leafy vegetables. Vegetables such as kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants. Kale is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which happen to be antioxidants. One of the best known anti-inflammatory superfoods is the humble and low-calorie spinach.
- Fatty fish. Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that can help fight inflammation. Fish that are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, mackerel, and anchovies. When your body digests the fatty acids in these fish, they are metabolized into compounds called resolvins and protectins. Both of these compounds have anti-inflammatory properties. According to the American Heart Association, it is recommended that you eat fatty fish at least twice a week to reap the full benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Beans. All the members of the legume family are capable of reducing levels of C-reactive protein, which is an inflammatory marker. Since they are also rich in protein, they are the perfect meatless alternative for your body’s protein needs. Some beans also contain polyphenols that act as antioxidants.
- Chia seeds and flaxseeds. If you want a more versatile source of omega-3 fatty acids to add to your diet, then look no further than chia seeds and flaxseeds. These superfoods can easily be added to any of your favorite cereals, baked goods, and smoothies.
- Oil and nuts. Olive oil and flaxseed oil contain plenty of healthy fats, as do almonds, walnuts, and macadamia nuts. You can add extra virgin olive oil and a handful of walnuts to your salad of dark leafy greens to gain their combined anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Ginger and turmeric. Add these spices to your dishes to enhance their flavor and to reduce your inflammation.
- Tea. A cup of green tea will be sure to give you a boost of antioxidants. It is one of the healthiest beverages you can drink, but black tea and herbal tea can greatly benefit your body too.
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If you want to learn more about foods with anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits, you can read more articles at FoodIsMedicine.com.