Arthritis is a group of diseases that can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joints and can end up affecting people of all ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages. Arthritis is of different types. One of the common types is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease wherein the joints come under attack by the immune system. Another common type is osteoarthritis, which develops due to overuse of the joints. Fortunately, there are certain foods that can help manage the condition effectively by relieving joint pain and also by easing any inflammation caused. Listed below are some of the best foods that can help people suffering from arthritis manage the condition more effectively.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as trout, sardines, mackerel, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that people consuming fatty fish showed decreased levels of specific inflammation-related compounds, less morning stiffness, and joint pain intensity. Fatty fish are also rich in vitamin D, which can help prevent symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to the AHA (American Heart Association), including a minimum of around two servings of fatty fish in one’s food helps fight against inflammation effectively.
Garlic
Garlic and its components are full of health benefits as they possess cancer-fighting properties and are also responsible for lowering the risks of dementia and heart disease. Additionally, garlic has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which could go a long way in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and even in strengthening the immune system.
Ginger
Apart from the fact that it lends ample flavor to sweets, soups, and teas, ginger has also been shown to help in easing the symptoms of arthritis. According to studies conducted, ginger has shown to improve knee pain symptoms in those who consumed it. It also showed that ginger and its components help in blocking the production of substances that increase inflammation in the body as well. Try and consume ginger in dried or powdered form or fresh as it can aid in reducing symptoms of arthritis.
Broccoli
Broccoli has been shown to reduce inflammation. Studies have found that consuming cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli leads to lower levels of inflammatory markers. What’s more? Components, such as sulforaphane, present in broccoli can help in reducing symptoms of arthritis.
Walnuts
Nutrient-rich walnuts are packed with compounds that can help lower inflammation associated with arthritis and joint disease. Studies have shown that people who eat walnuts, that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, showed reduced markers of inflammation and have specifically shown to decrease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Berries
Berries possess tons of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants into each serving, thereby contributing to their characteristic of helping reduce inflammation. According to studies, those who consumed a minimum of two servings of berries every week were around 14% less likely to have higher levels of inflammatory markers in the blood. Berries are also rich in the plant compounds of rutin and quercetin that have multiple health benefits.
Besides a balanced meal plan, patients may also need medications to fight joint disorders. Doctors prescribe ACTEMRA® (tocilizumab) as a treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis. This FDA-approved medication works by blocking a protein in the body called interleukin-6 (IL-6), reducing inflammation and joint pain. ACTEMRA® is available in the form of a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection and an intravenous infusion. The subcutaneous injection can be self-administered once a week or once in two weeks.
Otezla®, Voltaren, STELARA®, COSENTYX®,
Tremfya®, and Kevzara® can also be helpful in managing arthritis symptoms.
Otezla® is widely used for psoriatic arthritis treatments. The oral pill is usually prescribed twice daily, but this will vary depending on a person’s symptoms and response. It is known to reduce joint swelling, pain, and tenderness. An advantage of using Otezla® is that it does not require initial or routine blood tests. Voltaren can also be used to alleviate arthritis symptoms. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel that provides relief from arthritis pain. Available over the counter, Voltaren relieves pain and reduces stiffness. Doctors may also prescribe STELARA® in some cases. It is an injection that is given four times a year, after the initial two doses. Common side effects can include runny nose, congestion, and sore throat.
Marketed under the brand name COSENTYX®, secukinumab is a targeted biologic that helps reduce the risk of joint damage. As arthritis is a progressive chronic condition, adults suffering from active psoriatic arthritis will experience severe bouts of swelling and joint stiffness. COSENTYX® clinical trials have indicated reductions in the intensity of swelling. It works by targeting specific molecules that may cause inflammation among various known triggers of arthritis.
Tremfya® is a prescription suggested for active psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis that helps block interleukin 23 (IL 23), one of the main proteins that trigger many common arthritis symptoms.
Kevzara® is suggested for managing the symptoms of pain, swelling, and stiffness linked to Rheumatoid arthritis. Similar to Tremfya®, this drug blocks specific interleukin 6 receptors to reduce the symptoms from flaring up.
