Joint issues are common amongst the elderly and seniors. While most of them tend to prefer medicines and pain-relieving formulations to help ease the pain, what mostly goes overlooked is the fact that diets play an important role in most joint-related issues. There is a difference between natural compounds found in diets and the man-made formulations offered as tablets.
Orthopedic specialists always suggest elderly people look after their diets irrespective of the condition of their joints. There is no doubt that your everyday routine has a huge impact on your overall health and the longevity of your joints. So, here’s our take on 10 foods that might help reduce some joint-related pains and issues.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Cold-water fish tends to contain a huge concentration of Omega-3s fatty acids that are essential for overall health. These important nutrients are sometimes referred to as polyunsaturated fatty acids. These nutrients are not only proven to reduce and remove inflammation but also improve functions of the brain and lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes along with other illnesses. Furthermore, Omega0-3 fatty acids can be found in fish such as trout, tuna, and salmon. Therefore, if you are suffering from joint problems, you should consider eating fish with ingredients that are helpful for joint pain.
Nuts and Seeds
If you are a vegetarian, then we have got some good news for you. Healthy nutrients are not only found in meat or other similar types of products but vegetables such as nuts and seeds as well. Walnuts, almonds, and flax seeds contain a large concentration of Omega-3s acids that reduce inflammation in the joints as well as the connective tissue.
Brassica Vegetable
To help relieve joint problems, brassica vegetables are another great source of important nutrients. If you were wondering what are those, brassica vegetables are also known as cruciferous vegetables that are usually associated with the mustard and cabbage family. Leafy greens like arugula, mustard greens, kale, and purple cabbage are in the brassica family. There are other popular vegetables that make the list such as cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussel sprouts. On top of that, this particular subset of the vegetation population has been found to contain an enzyme that prevents and blocks swelling in the joints. Moreover, they are full of vitamins, fiber, and nutrients.
Colorful Fruits
Most of the time, fruits get a bad reputation due to their sugar content but many are a source of powerful anti-oxidants. Similar to many vegetables, fruits as well help in reducing inflammation in the body. For instance, blueberries are known to contain anthocyanins, one of the most powerful flavonoids. They help turn off the inflammatory responses in the body.
In addition to that, apples are also rich in fiber and are an anti-inflammatory fruit that provides several benefits to the gut. Moreover, pineapples have also been known to contain bromelain that helps reduce joint pain caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, remember that most of the bromelain content is found in the stem and core of the pineapple. Therefore, blend it into a smoothie to get the maximum benefit.
Whole Grains
Several pieces of research have been conducted to study the relationship between whole grains and the inflammatory responses in the body. Most studies have concluded that whole grains contain proteins along with fibers that help produce fatty acids counteracting inflammation. Therefore, if you are suffering from joint pains, it is suggested that you consume diets containing refined grains as well.
Bone Broth
Chondroitin, glucosamine, and amino acids are well-documented when it comes to maintaining healthy joints while calcium is known to promote bone density. Fortunately, both broth happens to contain all of these. However, thorough research is needed to prove whether or not bone broth helps stimulate the regrowth of cartilage. But if you were to take bone broth as a regular supplement, it is proven to reduce joint pain and increase mobility for people suffering from arthritis.
Final Word
Joint-related pains can limit the mobility of the elderly. If you were to ensure that your loved one receives atleast one if not all of the above-mentioned diets on a regular basis, you will create a significant impact on the health of the joints and pain as well. Make sure that move around and exercise a bit if possible to help overcome the issues within a short span of time.