Menu

12 Foods That Reduce Swelling & Joint Pain

Table of Contents
foods for joint pain

Food is medicine. Along with any medications or other therapies your doctor advises, consuming foods with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic characteristics may assist if you’re dealing with arthritic pain.

Here are 12 foods that could reduce arthritis pain and strengthen joints.

12. Green Tea

foods for joint pain

Green tea has a reputation for being rich in minerals and antioxidants as well as having anti-inflammatory properties. Rheumatoid arthritis can be less common and less severe, according to studies done on animals.

Featured on BlackDoctor

11. Mackerel, Sardines, Salmon, and Tuna

anti aging foods

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in this fish, have been shown in tests to reduce inflammation. The Arthritis Foundation advises eating these fish in portions of 3 to 4 ounces two or more times a week to protect the heart and reduce inflammation.

While fresh fish can rapidly become expensive, one way to reduce the cost is to shop in the freezer department or purchase canned sardines, salmon, or tuna. If you need to limit your sodium intake, be sure to select lower sodium options when buying canned goods.

RELATED: Five-Day Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis

10. Apples & Pomegranates

foods for joint pain

The Arthritis Foundation says that blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, and boysenberries all have the ability to combat arthritis because of their high antioxidant content. Consume a variety of berries throughout the week because they are healthy whether you eat them frozen, fresh, or dehydrated (without added sugar).

Apples are a wonderful source of fiber and are high in antioxidants. Additionally, they add crunch and can aid in reducing your desire for unhealthy snacking.

Pomegranates, categorized as berry fruits, are full of tannins that can help reduce arthritis-related inflammation. Mix them into plain yogurt or add them to a salad for some extra advantages.

9. Steamed or Fresh Vegetables

lung cancer survival rate

Take it a step further and incorporate anti-inflammatory veggies into your regular diet, such as frozen or fresh broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and mushrooms. Add them to salads, stir-fries, or as nutritious side dishes.

While making significant dietary adjustments may take time, gradually introducing a variety of foods that are beneficial for people with arthritis will improve your general health and how your arthritis pain is managed.

8. Olive and Canola Oils

foods for joint pain

These two types, which have a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 acids, both of which are required fatty acids, should be chosen instead of vegetable oil or maize oil. Oleocanthal, a component of olive oil that has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory qualities, is particularly beneficial for heart health.

7. Turmeric and Ginger

natural foods

Ginger and turmeric are also known to have anti-inflammatory qualities because of the compounds in these plants. Both are frequently utilized in Indian and Chinese cuisine.

The scientific evidence for the recommended daily or weekly intakes of ginger or turmeric is based primarily on supplemented doses; however, a modest improvement in health may result from a healthy sprinkle of these spices on foods or in beverages.

RELATED: 6 Ways to Stay Hydrated With Rheumatoid Arthritis

6. Nuts 

foods for joint pain

Unlike animal proteins, all nuts are cholesterol-free, abundant in protein, and low in saturated fats. For an extra protein boost, eat them by themselves or mix them into your preferred yogurt, salad, or nutritious dish.

5. Whole Grains

quinoa in measuring spoon

Not all whole grains have to be monotonous. There are many different options to choose from and add to your diet, including quinoa, farro, and bulgur. Only whole grains naturally include the additional minerals and fiber that these kinds add. The Arthritis Foundation advises consuming three to six ounces of grains every day to gain advantages.

Try them in place of more traditional options like white rice as side dishes.

4. Salsa

foods for joint pain

Due to its rich mixture of tomatoes, onions, and other veggies, salsa is a fantastic method to enhance your intake of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

3. Dark Berries

Dark berries like blueberries provide polyphenols called anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effects. For a cost-effective choice, opt for frozen blueberries and fold them into yogurt, oatmeal, or chia pudding

2. Lentils

Multiple studies support the theory that a Mediterranean diet may help lower inflammation. Legumes such as lentils are a staple in the Mediterranean diet and are rich in protein and fiber, too.

 

1. Fresh Pineapple

foot pain

We’re not talking pineapple-flavored, or pineapple-infused–we’re talking fresh pineapple. What makes pineapple such an anti-inflammatory star? Bromelain. Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme, or protease—meaning it digests protein foods. For example, pineapple juice in a marinade can tenderize meat). When pineapple is eaten without protein foods, the bromelain gets into the bloodstream and exerts an anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body.

SHARE
Related Stories
Answer the question below
What actions have you taken regarding your leaky heart valve?

Get our Weekly Newsletter

Stay informed on the latest breakthroughs in family health and wellness. Sign up today!

By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.

More from BlackDoctor

Where Culture Meets Care

BlackDoctor is the world’s largest and most comprehensive online health resource specifically for the Black community. BlackDoctor understands that the uniqueness of Black culture - our heritage and our traditions - plays a role in our health. BlackDoctor gives you access to innovative new approaches to the health information you need in everyday language so you can break through the disparities, gain control and live your life to its fullest.
✦ AI Search Disclaimer
This AI-powered search tool helps you find relevant health articles from the BlackDoctor.org archive. Please keep the following in mind:
✦ For Informational Purposes Only
The information provided through this AI search is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
✦ Always Consult a Healthcare Provider
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read through this search tool. If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
✦ AI Limitations
This search tool uses artificial intelligence to help match your queries with articles in our archive. While we strive for accuracy, AI-generated results may occasionally be incomplete, outdated, or not fully relevant to your specific situation.
✦ No Doctor-Patient Relationship
Using this search tool does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and BlackDoctor.org or any healthcare provider.
Explore over 35,000 articles and videos across black health, wellness, lifestyle and culture
Full AI Search Experience >
×

Download PDF

Enter your name and email to receive the download link.

BlackDoctor AI Search