Tips for fighting arthritis with nutrition

Nutrition plays a role in all aspects of human health including disease management, and arthritis is no exception. While there are several types of arthritis, the symptoms of all types commonly include joint pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation. Fortunately, arthritis sufferers now have access to many methods of controlling their symptoms and can gather many of these solutions on their dinner plates.

• According to the Arthritis Foundation, the term "arthritis" actually describes up to 100 different inflammatory conditions.
• These conditions include the three most prevalent types: osteoarthritis, an inflammation of joint cartilage; rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammation of the membranes and fluids surrounding the joint; and juvenile arthritis, a condition that may include autoimmune conditions causing inflammation throughout the body.
• Any of these variants can prove debilitating.

• Untreated arthritis can make delicate manual work impossible, forcing sufferers to give up favourite crafts or hobbies.
• It may make everyday tasks extraordinarily painful and cause sufferers to miss work for long periods of time.
• Standard medical recommendations include exercise to keep the joints supple and pain relievers such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and cortisone injections.
• Unfortunately, these medications can produce side effects ranging from gastric distress to liver damage. This is why treatment through diet and nutrition is appealing to many patients.

• A healthy and delicious anti-inflammatory diet might involve many of your established favourites.
• If you enjoy fish, for instance, you're in luck. Fatty fish such as sardines, tuna and salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory effect. People who dislike fish may purchase an omega-3 supplement.
• Flax seeds, a tasty addition to salads, also contain omega-3 fatty acids.
• Whole grains, dark leafy greens, antioxidant-rich tomatoes and beets also help keep inflammation at bay.
• Garlic, onions and turmeric are powerful anti-inflammatory seasonings that add flavour while providing health benefits.

• What not to eat is another important consideration. Just as some foods can reduce or prevent inflammation, others can cause or worsen it.
• Healthline warns against consuming large amounts of fried, fatty and grilled foods because they all cause inflammation.
• Sugars, refined carbohydrates and dairy products can also encourage inflammatory responses in some people. Consuming these foods may undermine all the positive effects of the anti-inflammatory items on your plate.