Healthy Foods that Treat Arthritis

Arthritis affects millions of people throughout the world. While arthritis has no known cure, I have seen dozens of people find relief from arthritis using a healthy diet rich in plant-based nutrients and anti-inflammatory oils. An anti-inflammatory diet can be an ideal intervention for people with rheumatoid arthritis, gout and osteoarthritis; in fact, some arthritis sufferers have found that these foods rival the efficacy of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. The following anti-inflammatory foods can ease symptoms of arthritis with none of the side effects associated with pharmaceutical treatments.

Cherries

Bing cherry, black cherry and tart cherry are among the most popular holistic treatment options for people with arthritis. These delicious treats contain powerful anthocyanins-- key antioxidants that also battle inflammation. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, some evidence also supports the notion that cherries can reduce levels of gout-causing uric acid in the bloodstrea. Cherries can be eaten fresh or taken in the form of a juice, powder or liquid concentrate.

Monounsaturated Oils

Healthy plant-based oils like flaxseed and olive oil contain anti-inflammatory fatty acids like alpha linoleic acid (ALA). Some nutritionists and naturopaths recommend an olive oil-rich Mediterranean diet to people with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. These oils may help to lubricate joints and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Cold-Water Fish

Cold-water, deep-ocean fish like wild Alaskan salmon contain large amounts of DHA and EPA, two anti-inflammatory oils. The U.S. National Institutes of Health note that good scientific evidence supports the use of these oils as a holistic treatment for arthritis symptoms. A diet rich in fish-sourced omega-3 fatty acids can also support the health of the eyes, central nervous system and cardiovascular system.

Pineapple

Pineapple contains bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Most studies of bromelain have investigated its use in isolation-- not as a natural component of pineapple; however, there is strong scientific evidence to support this compound's use as an alternative to NSAIDs, and pineapple is also an excellent source of flavanoid antioxidants. One serving of pineapple each day can provide an array of nutritional benefits while also offering a potent anti-inflammatory enzyme.