Foods That Alleviate Arthritis Pain

Some foods may help alleviate arthritis pain and inflammation. While food changes alone may not be sufficient to control arthritis pain, adding certain foods to your diet and eliminating others can help.

Oils

• Fish oil contains omega-3 fat that can help reduce inflammation. Other oils can also help reduce swelling, though fish oil is the most potent. You can try flaxseed, borage seed and evening primrose oils as well.

Spices

• Some spices help reduce inflammation and ease arthritis pain. Cooking with turmeric, cloves and ginger can help bring relief to stiff joints. Ginger thins the blood so check with your doctor before using it if you are on anticoagulants.

Vitamins and Supplements

• Vitamin E helps reduce inflammation and supports the immune system, which is important if you consume a lot of fish oil. Vitamin D can help improve joint flexibility and ease pain. Vitamin C helps repair collagen to keep cartilage strong and slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine can help ease pain and aid with cartilage regrowth.

Foods to Avoid

• Some foods can aggravate arthritis pain. Tomatoes, bell peppers, white potatoes, corn and dairy products may increase arthritis pain. Arthritis patients should avoid products with corn or sunflower oils.

Studies

• A 1994 Belgian study found that 53 percent of participants who took fish oil showed improvement in arthritis pain symptoms compared to 10 percent in a placebo group. A 2009 analysis of 15 diet and arthritis studies found that after 12 weeks arthritis patients on a diet heavy with fruits, vegetables and fish reported about 15 percent less pain.