Anti-inflammatory diet This nutritional style helps against rheumatic complaints

Anti-inflammatory diet This nutritional style helps against rheumatic complaints / Health News

Relieve arthritis suffering through proper nutrition

An arthritis can occur in different forms. In addition to the acute form, chronic arthritis is widespread. The most common complaint is rheumatoid arthritis or, in short, rheumatism. Although there is no diet that can cure rheumatism, certain foods still contribute to the fight against inflammation and strengthen the bones and the immune system. The diet presented here can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.


Based in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation suggests a range of foods to help patients suffering from arthritis, which can help alleviate the symptoms. Whether it is an acute reactive arthritis or a chronic polyarthritis, it does not matter. According to the Arthritis Foundation, these foods can relieve discomfort and improve quality of life.

Proper nutrition helps to reduce the discomfort associated with rheumatic and arthritis. (Image: Daniel Vincek / fotolia.com)

Omega-3s from fatty fish

Certain fish species contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Nutrition experts recommend eating 100 grams of salmon, tuna, mackerel or herring twice a week.

This vegetable helps with arthritis

As the experts of the Arthritis Foundation report, soybeans are very well suited for rheumatism patients. They can be eaten in the form of tofu, for example. Soybeans, but also kidney beans, are low in fat and rich in protein and fiber. In addition, green leafy vegetables should be incorporated into the diet because it is rich in vitamins and calcium. Also, broccoli should be regularly on the plate, because the vegetables are in addition to calcium also rich in vitamin K and C. Especially in patients with osteoarthritis, the compound contained in broccoli called sulforaphane to have a disease-reducing effect.

Anti-inflammatory fruits

The Arthritis Foundation relies on studies that have shown that cherries help reduce the frequency of gout attacks. Researchers found that certain plant dyes called anthocyanins are responsible for this effect. Anthocyanins are also found in other red and purple fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit and limes additionally provide plenty of vitamin C, which should help prevent joint inflammation.

Which oils should be used?

Extra virgin olive oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect, according to the nutrition expert. In addition, avocado and thistle oils can achieve a cholesterol-lowering effect. In addition to the fish mentioned above, walnut oil is also an excellent omega-3 fatty acid supplier.

Low-fat dairy products help with rheumatic complaints

Low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese are rich in calcium and vitamin D. These components contribute to increased bone strength. Furthermore, vitamin D strengthens the immune system.

Green tea in rheumatoid arthritis

Green tea will provide the nutritional expert with a range of ingredients, such as polyphenols and antioxidants, that are believed to reduce inflammation and slow down cartilage damage. The Arthritis Foundation relies on studies that have shown that a specific antioxidant (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) in green tea blocks the production of molecules that cause joint damage.

Whole grains improve blood levels

According to the Arthritis Foundation, regular consumption of whole grains results in lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood. High CRP levels are associated with inflammation in heart disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Foods like oatmeal, brown rice and whole grains are great for lowering CRP in the blood.

Other useful foods

In addition, nutritionists suggest that allium species such as garlic, onions and leeks be included in the diet. Research suggests that the ingredients of these allium species limit cartilage-damaging enzymes in human cells. Another recommendation is to regularly eat nuts such as walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios and almonds. These are rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E and alpha-linolenic acid. (Vb)