According to the CDC, about 15 million people suffer from some form of joint pain. Joint pain can be caused by inflammation, lack of or overuse, injury, arthritis, gout, or another chronic joint disorder. Other factors that may have a significant part in joint pain are aging, levels of physical activity, medical history, and diet.
Joint pain can happen where two or more bones meet and form a joint. Most people explain joint pain symptoms as a dull or severe ache, burning sensation, stiffness, or soreness throughout the day.
There are many ways to manage and help treat pain in the joints. For example: managing your weight, exercising regularly, consuming the proper nutrition supplements, and maintaining a well-balanced diet.
Diet can play a major role in helping to reduce joint pain. Those who consume large amounts of sugar, fried foods, or saturated fats may experience severe or debilitating pain and discomfort.
Foods such as vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, and spices contain ingredients that help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent damage to cartilage.
Here are five foods that help reduce joint pain:
- Vegetables, including broccoli, brussels sprouts and cabbage. These vegetables contain an ingredient called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane slows down cartilage deterioration in the joints associated with osteoarthritis, which is painful and frequently debilitating.
- Fatty fish, including salmon, tuna, trout and mackerel. These fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 helps to fight inflammation in the body. It is recommended to eat fish multiple times throughout the week for optimum nutrition. For those who aren’t a fish fan, an Omega-3 supplement may be a better choice.
- Garlic, onions and leeks. These foods contain a compound called diallyl disulfide. This component is made up of anti-inflammatory properties and detoxifying agents. Garlic has been known to fight inflammation and prevent damage to the body’s cartilage often caused by arthritis.
- Dark fruits such as cherries and blueberries. These fruits contain a component called Anthocyanin. This nutrient is what gives red fruit its color. These compounds help meet the body’s needs and are much more potent than vitamin C. Adding these fruits to your daily diet can help prevent stiffness and joint pain.
- Turmeric is one of the most researched inflammation preventers. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. There are turmeric supplements available for those who experience joint pain or suffer from arthritis. It is recommended to take in up to 500 milligrams twice a day. Always be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new routine in your diet.
If you or a loved one are experiencing joint pain and would like more information on how to find relief in the Highpoint, North Carolina area, call Carolina Pain Relief Center at (336) 777-7364.