Arthritis Pain: 5 Fruits to Relieve Joint Pain and Inflammation

Ever heard of the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”? Well, there are other fruit superheroes that can help you manage ailments like diabetes and arthritis. Yes, you heard that right! An expert has revealed five fruits that ease joint pain and make arthritis quaking 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 joint inflammation, stiffness and pain. It can affect people of all ages and can be caused by a variety 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 there is no cure for arthritis, certain fruits have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms,” she says Rinka Kumari, Chief Dietitian, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru. Let’s take a look at five fruits, as suggested by a nutritionist, that have been found to have potential benefits for arthritis.

Here are the 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 reduce inflammation in the body, which can help with reduces the symptoms of arthritis. By including apples in your diet, you can help reduce inflammation and potentially alleviate arthritis symptoms.

2. Cherries

Cherries, especially 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 reduction in markers of inflammation and a reduction in pain levels in individuals with arthritis.

3. Pineapple

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. It has been proven that bromelain reduces the production of inflammatory substances in the body and inhibits the action of certain inflammatory cells. By including pineapple in your diet, you can help reduce inflammation, which can ease arthritis symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.

Read also: Summer fruit: 7 reasons why you should eat pineapple this season

4. Blueberries

Blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in antioxidants and various beneficial compounds. They are full of antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant blue color. The expert explains that these antioxidants help fight inflammation in the body by neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. In addition, blueberries contain anthocyanins, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Including blueberries in your diet can help reduce inflammation and possibly alleviate arthritis symptoms.

5. Oranges

Oranges are not only refreshing, but also offer potential health benefits managing arthritis. “They are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C plays a key role in reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress,” says Kumari. By consuming oranges or orange juice, you can increase your intake of vitamin C and strengthen your body’s antioxidant defenses. This can potentially help alleviate arthritis symptoms and promote joint health.

It is important to note that these fruits have potential benefits for arthritis, but should not replace other treatments recommended by health professionals. Additionally, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, as some fruits can interact with certain medications.