Arthritis & Nutrition

Tasty Diet Options from Arthritis Care Experts

There are many different ways to approach diet when someone has arthritis. For someone with arthritis who needs to lose weight, a lower calorie healthy diet is a good place to start so that that person can lose excess pounds. Extra weight might be causing additional arthritic pain, especially on hips, knees, and feet.

Another consideration for people with arthritis is inflammation. Researchers have found that omega-3 fatty acids can fight inflammation and omega-6 fatty acids can cause more joint inflammation, yet both are needed in the diet. Eating a diet that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for people with arthritis as well as other chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and obesity.

Avoid a diet of too many fried or processed foods. Instead, reach for the good foods when you’re hungry. Munch on fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts. A Mediterranean diet rich in fish, poultry, and plant-based foods has been found to decrease joint pain.

There are a few specific foods that have been studied and found to help ease painful arthritis symptoms:

• Apples
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Fiber
• Seafood rich in omega-3’s (for those who prefer supplements, check with a health care provider first)
• Ginger

Always check with a health professional for concerns about changing a diet.

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