by Have you heard of the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”? Well, there are also other fruit superheroes that can help you manage conditions like diabetes and arthritis. Yes, you heard right! An expert revealed five fruits to soothe joint pain and make arthritis shake in its boots. Read on to find out which fruits can help you manage arthritis pain.
Arthritis is a broad term that refers to a group of conditions characterized by inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints. It can affect people of all ages and can be caused by a number of factors, including age, genetics, injury, or autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. The main goal in managing arthritis is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility. Certain fruits have been found to have properties that can help with arthritis pain and inflammation.
“Although arthritis cannot be cured, certain fruits have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms,” says Rinki Kumari, chief dietitian at Fortis Hospital, Bangalore. Let’s take a look at five fruits, as suggested by the dietitian, that have been found to have potential benefits for arthritis.
Here are 5 best fruits for arthritis.
1. apples
Apples are not only delicious but also full of health benefits. Kumari explains that apples are a rich source of quercetin, a flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Quercetin can help decrease inflammation in the body, which in turn can help reduce arthritis symptoms. By incorporating apples into your diet, you can help decrease inflammation and potentially alleviate arthritis symptoms.
2. cherries
Cherries, particularly tart cherries, are known for their potential benefits in managing arthritis. “Cherries contain anthocyanins, which are compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body,” says Kumari. Studies have shown that consuming cherries or cherry juice can lead to a decrease in markers of inflammation and a reduction in pain levels among people with arthritis.
3. Pineapple
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has been studied for its possible anti-inflammatory effects. Bromelain has been shown to reduce the production of inflammatory substances in the body and inhibit the activity of certain inflammatory cells. By incorporating pineapple into your diet, you can help reduce inflammation, which can relieve arthritis symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.
Also read: Summer fruits: 7 reasons why you should eat pineapple this season
4. Blueberries
Blueberries are a nutrition powerhouse, rich in antioxidants and various beneficial compounds. They are packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant blue color. The expert explains that these antioxidants help fight inflammation in the body by neutralizing damaging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, blueberries contain anthocyanins which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Including blueberries in your diet can help reduce inflammation and potentially alleviate arthritis symptoms.
5. oranges
Oranges are not only refreshing, but also offer potential benefits for arthritis management. “They are a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C plays a vital role in reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress,” says Kumari. By consuming oranges or orange juice, you can increase your vitamin C intake and improve your body’s antioxidant defenses. This can potentially help alleviate arthritis symptoms and promote joint health.
It is important to note that while these fruits may have potential benefits for arthritis, they should not replace other treatments recommended by health professionals. Also, it’s crucial to talk to your health care provider before making any significant changes to your diet, as some fruits can interact with certain medications.
