Superfoods for Joint Health

Healthy joints are something to aspire for at any time during your life. But, unless you're having trouble, your joint health might not make it onto your radar on a regular basis. One way to address your overall joint health is to adjust the foods you’re consuming.^1-7 One study reported that 24% of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis who added a superfood, like blueberries, to their diet experienced an improvement in symptoms while 12% of participants who consumed things like soda and desserts noted worse symptoms.¹

Below are a few superfoods that are commonly available and known for their anti-inflammatory properties. As with any dietary changes, talk to your doctor about whether or not these are right for you.

1. Berries

If you're looking for a way to add variety to your diet, berries may be the ticket! Bursting with colorful deliciousness, berries like blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and strawberries are high in antioxidant compounds that may help ward off inflammation.^2-4,6,7  Easily available, simply add them to your morning oatmeal, a smoothie, or enjoy them as a light dessert. Some berries are acidic and may not be right for some patients.

2. Fatty fish

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, oily fish such as sardines, trout, salmon and mackerel can offer anti-inflammatory effects on the joints and may even help decrease morning stiffness and joint pain.^2-7 Fatty, oily fish doesn't have to be a dinner-time only selection though; add it to a spinach and romaine salad that has lots of red peppers, tomatoes and feta too.

3. Whole grains

Whole grains, like oatmeal, quinoa and brown rice, might also help reduce the level of inflammation in the body.^6,7 However, some refined grains, like white flour, can have the opposite effect.⁷ Top your morning oatmeal with nuts and berries for an additional joint-healthy boost.^2-4,6,7 No time to make oatmeal in the morning? You can prepare some oats the night before, then top with sliced berries, yogurt and nuts the next morning for a quick breakfast.

4. Garlic

Adding garlic to your diet is as easy as tossing in a few minced cloves while you’re cooking. Your joints will thank you because garlic's anti-inflammatory effects can help ease joint soreness^4,10-11 while also boosting your immune system.^4,9

5. Nuts and seeds

Not only are nuts and seeds delicious to snack on, they're high in anti-inflammatory compounds like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B6.^2-4,7,8 A handful of walnuts as a daily snack, for example, can help reduce joint inflammation.^3,4,8 Just remember that nuts tend to be high in calories so you'll want to follow recommended serving instructions.

Eating for joint health might mean adding some new foods to your diet. Please check with your doctor before making any changes to your diet. 

THE FOODS MENTIONED ABOVE MAY NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR ALL PEOPLE - PARTICULARLY IF YOU HAVE FOOD ALLERGIES OR OTHER DISEASE/HEALTH CONDITIONS THAT WOULD RENDER THESE CHOICES HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH. ASK YOUR DOCTOR WHICH FOODS ARE RIGHT FOR YOU.