Arthritis affects millions of
people throughout the world. While arthritis has no known cure, I have seen dozens of people find
relief from arthritis using a healthy diet rich in plant-based nutrients and
anti-inflammatory oils. An anti-inflammatory diet can be an ideal intervention
for people with rheumatoid arthritis, gout and osteoarthritis; in fact, some
arthritis sufferers have found that these foods rival the efficacy of
over-the-counter and prescription drugs. The following anti-inflammatory foods
can ease symptoms of arthritis with none of the side effects associated with
pharmaceutical treatments.
Cherries
Bing
cherry, black cherry and tart cherry are among the most popular holistic
treatment options for people with arthritis. These delicious treats contain
powerful anthocyanins-- key antioxidants that also battle inflammation.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, some evidence also supports
the notion that cherries can reduce levels of gout-causing uric acid in the
bloodstrea. Cherries can be eaten fresh or taken in the form of a juice, powder
or liquid concentrate.
Monounsaturated Oils
Healthy
plant-based oils like flaxseed and olive oil contain anti-inflammatory fatty
acids like alpha linoleic acid (ALA). Some nutritionists and naturopaths
recommend an olive oil-rich Mediterranean diet to people with rheumatoid
arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. These oils may help to lubricate
joints and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water,
deep-ocean fish like wild Alaskan salmon contain large amounts of DHA and EPA,
two anti-inflammatory oils. The U.S. National Institutes of Health note that
good scientific evidence supports the use of these oils as a holistic treatment
for arthritis symptoms. A diet rich in fish-sourced omega-3 fatty acids can
also support the health of the eyes, central nervous system and cardiovascular
system.
Pineapple
Pineapple
contains bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme with powerful
anti-inflammatory properties. Most studies of bromelain have investigated its
use in isolation-- not as a natural component of pineapple; however, there is
strong scientific evidence to support this compound's use as an alternative to
NSAIDs, and pineapple is also an excellent source of flavanoid antioxidants.
One serving of pineapple each day can provide an array of nutritional benefits
while also offering a potent anti-inflammatory enzyme.
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