5 ideal foods for arthritis management

5 ideal foods for arthritis management

Arthritis is not a singular condition but a group of disorders that mainly affects the joints causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness, among other known symptoms. It is one of the country’s most commonly diagnosed osteo problems, with over 100 different subtypes. However, arthritis can be managed considerably with simple changes in daily nutrition, lifestyle changes, and prescriptions for managing the symptoms. Here is a brief overview of managing arthritis symptoms.

Fatty fish
Fatty fish are naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, one of the most crucial anti-inflammatory compounds suggested for specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent choices of fish to be consumed thrice a week.

Fresh fruits
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, cranberries, grapes, oranges, and grapefruits are excellent sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, quercetin, anthocyanins, and citrus can help counter inflammation, one of the most severe symptoms of arthritis.

Nutrient-dense vegetables
Dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables pack plenty of nutrition that can help counter discomforts linked to arthritis. Broccoli, beetroot, carrots, sweet potatoes, and cabbage contain antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that counter inflammation. Red bell peppers, pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes are also rich in beta-carotene and vitamin that boosts immune function. Dark leafy greens are also rich in vitamin K, which helps with bone mineralization and cartilage health.

Whole grains, nuts, and seeds
Barley, bulgur, oats, brown rice, farro, millets, sorghum, and quinoa are rich in fibers, antioxidants, selenium, magnesium, vitamin B, and vitamin E, which help lower the risk of osteoarthritis. These grains also reduce the impact of inflammation. In addition, assorted nuts and seeds can provide the much-needed omega-3 fatty acids for those who don’t want to consume fish as a primary nutrient source. For example, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, pine nuts, flax, chia, and hemp seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based proteins.

Garlic and ginger
Garlic gets a special mention because this vegetable belongs to the allium family, a potent source of anti-inflammatory compounds that can battle the active symptoms of arthritis. Garlic contains an active compound called diallyl sulfide that inhibits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In layperson’s terms, this effectively lowers inflammation and prevents further damage to the cartilage tissue supporting vital joints. Ginger is also a potent allium herb that helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with different arthritis types.

Prescription for arthritis management
A combination of the following prescriptions can be suggested for treating and managing arthritis.

Xeljanz®
Xeljanz® belongs to a class of active JAK inhibitors that help disrupt inflammation pathways within the cells, thus lowering the risk of symptom flare-ups with regular use.

TREMFYA®
TREMFYA® actively blocks interleukin proteins to lower the impact of joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.  Patients who have been advised to start TREMFYA® treatment can apply for cost support. The TREMFYA® withMe Savings Program for eligible patients covers the out-of-pocket costs. One can follow the application process on the official website to check for eligibility and other details.

Rinvoq®
Rinvoq® is suggested as an alternative to tumor necrosis factors if patients are not responding well to the psoriatic arthritis treatment.

Otezla®
Otezla® is one of the first few FDA-approved prescriptions that helps inhibit the production of proteins that trigger inflammation in psoriatic arthritis.

Kevzara®
Kevzara also belongs to a class of interleukin six receptor blockers that help relieve pain, stiffening, inflammation, and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Another way of managing psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is by consulting a rheumatologist for effective solutions. There are top doctors capable of treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. They outline diagnoses and treatment plans to those affected by PsA.