5 BEST FOODS TO EAT IF YOU ARE HAVING ARTHRITIS

If you have arthritis, you know just how devastating this condition can be.

Arthritis is a term for a class of diseases that cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds.

There are many different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is one type, which develops in joints with overuse. Another type is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your joints

Fortunately, there are many foods that can ease inflammation and may help relieve some of the joint pain associated with arthritis.

In fact, one survey found that 24% of those with rheumatoid arthritis reported that their diet had an impact on the severity of their symptoms.

1. Fatty fish

Fatty fish varieties such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Fish is also a good source of vitamin D, which can help prevent deficiency. Multiple studies have found that rheumatoid arthritis may be associated with low levels of vitamin D, which could contribute to symptoms.

The American Heart Association recommends including at least two servings of fatty fish in your diet each week to take advantage of the beneficial anti-inflammatory properties.

2. Garlic

Garlic is jam-packed with health benefits.

Garlic has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect that may help decrease symptoms of arthritis.

In fact, some research has shown that garlic may enhance the function of certain immune cells to help strengthen the immune system 

Adding garlic to your diet could benefit both arthritis symptoms and overall health

3.Ginger

Besides adding a burst of flavor to teas, soups and sweets, ginger may also help ease the symptoms .

Consuming ginger in fresh, powdered or dried form may reduce inflammation and aid in reducing symptoms of arthritis.

4. Walnuts 

Walnuts are nutrient-dense and loaded with compounds that may help reduce the inflammation associated with joint disease.

Walnuts are especially high in omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to decrease the symptoms of arthritis.

5. Spinach 

Leafy greens like spinach are full of nutrients, and some of their components may actually be able to help decrease inflammation caused by arthritis.

Several studies have found that a higher intake of fruits and vegetables is linked to lower levels of inflammation.

Spinach, in particular, contains plenty of antioxidants as well as plant compounds that can relieve inflammation and help fight disease.

Spinach is especially high in the antioxidant kaempferol, which has been shown to decrease the effects of the inflammatory agents associated with rheumatoid arthritis.