ARTHRITIS causes pain and inflammation which can be stressful to live with. While there is no direct cure, certain foods can help ease painful swelling, such as these five vegetables.
Arthritis affects around 10 million people in the UK.
It’s a lifelong condition, which can worsen during periods of flare-ups.
There is no direct cure for the condition, but eating a diet full of foods with inflammatory properties can help ease symptoms.
“When you have arthritis, the produce section is one of the most important stops you can make in the grocery store,” said the Arthritis Foundation.
“Vegetables are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that protect against cell damage and lower inflammation throughout the body, including in your joints.”
Here are five of the best vegetables for treating arthritis, recommended by the Arthritis Foundation.
Dark green leafy veg
Green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts and kale are rich in vitamins A, C, and K - antioxidants which protect against cell damage.
They are also high in calcium, which helps keep bones strong, while some contain a compound called sulforaphane, which blocks inflammation.
Red and orange vegetables
Sweet potatoes, carrots, red peppers and squash get their bright colours from carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin, and also contain antioxidants.
Beta-cryptoxanthin has been shown to reduce the risk of some inflammatory conditions in some studies.
Peppers
Peppers are rich in vitamin C, which protects bones and may protect cells in cartilage.
Onions, garlic, leeks and shallots
These vegetables are rich in a type of antioxidant called quercetin, which has a potential ability to relieve inflammation.
They also contain a compound called diallyl disulphine, which may reduce the enzymes that damage cartilage.
Olives
Olives and olive oil are potent inflammation fighters.
Extra-virgin olive oil contains the compound oleocanthal, an anti-inflammatory agent that has properties similar to ibuprofen.
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