Arthritis is a condition that we all dread as we grow older. There are foods we can eat that can help prevent its onset or at least, reduce the symptoms. One of the best to consider for the prevention of such condition is Omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are regarded as the healing ingredient which can power foods for arthritis. By consuming foods that are high in such essential fats, you'll be able to reduce the aches and pains from this debilitating condition. It is for this reason that these fatty acids are essential to people with arthritis. They have anti-inflammatory properties which can address the painful inflammation directly.
So how can Omega-3 fatty acids ease painful inflammation due to rheumatoid arthritis? Simple, these acids can produce high levels of "prostaglandins" and "leukotrienes".
Aside from having anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3 fatty acids can also help ensure that the cartilage found around the arthritis is not destroyed or damaged. This can reduce the pain as well as the speed which the condition progresses. According to studies, people who eat foods that are particularly rich in these fatty acids are less likely to suffer from arthritis. A good example would be Mediterranean cultures.
What are the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids?
. Fresh fish - Particularly the ones that oily and rich like mackerel, salmon, sardines and tuna.
. Black currants - These berries are known to have an extensive ability to lower inflammation and arthritis symptoms. They have a very rare yet essential fatty acid content that has strong anti-inflammatory properties. These are called GLA or Gamma-Linolenic Acid. These berries also have "anthocyanins" which are known to be antioxidant flavonoids that can inhibit the two enzymes responsible for joint inflammation in arthritis patients (cyclooxygenase-1 and -2).
. Olive oil - This oil is rich with "good" fat. It also has antioxidants known as "polyphenols". Aside from using it as your everyday cooking oil, you can add it to your salad dressing. Just a small amount or a few teaspoons would do per day.
. Nuts & seeds - They have Omega-3 fatty acids.
. Garlic & onion - As we all know, it has legendary anti-inflammatory properties. It has compounds that can alleviate arthritis symptoms while inhibiting the production of "cyclooxygenase" and "lipoxygenase".
. Yellow, green & orange peppers - They are loaded with Vit. C. Aside from being the key component of your joint's cartilage and keeping painful inflammation to a minimum.
. Ginger & turmeric - They also have anti-inflammatory properties which are a good alternative to processed sugar as well as excess salt.
What are the foods to avoid which can prevent arthritis symptoms?
Arthritis is a debilitating condition. By implementing the right foods in your diet, you can find a change in your arthritis symptoms. To do this, you can consider foods with Omega-3 fatty acids and those that are rich in antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory properties.
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Aside from learning what causes arthritis , it is also good to know home remedies for arthritis and food that can prevent or alleviate its symptoms.