Arthritis is a common condition that affects people of all ages, according to the NHS.
Symptoms of arthritis include restricted movement, joint pain, inflammation and warm, red skin over the affected area.
While there’s no cure for arthritis, there are treatments that could help to relieve signs of the condition.
Adding certain foods to your diet could help to slow down the condition’s progress, according to the Arthritis Foundation. These are the six best types of food that patients should be eating.
Fish
Fish contains some of the best natural anti-inflammatories around, including omega-3 fatty acids.
Salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies and other cold-water fish are the best sources of omega-3.
Patients should eat at least three to four ounces of fish, two times a week, the Arthritis Foundation said.
Berries
“Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, which support the immune system – the body’s natural defence system – and may help fight inflammation.
“Best sources are colourful foods such as blueberries, blackberries, cherries, strawberries, spinach, kale and broccoli.”
Try eating at least one and a half, to two cups of fruit in every meal. That doesn’t include the recommended two to three cups of vegetables.
Nuts
Walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios and almonds could all help to relieve the symptoms of arthritis.
“Nuts are full of inflammation-fighting monounsaturated fat, protein and filling fibre, too – a bonus if you’re trying to lose a few pounds.”
Just a handful of nuts everyday should help to reduce joint pain.
Onions
“Onions are packed with beneficial antioxidants,” said the Arthritis Foundation.
“They may also reduce inflammation, heart disease risk and LDL, or ‘bad’ cholesterol.
“Try them sautéed, grilled or raw in salads, stir-fries, whole-wheat pasta dishes or sandwiches.”
Beans
Beans are a great – and cheap – source of natural anti-inflammatories.
Pinto, black, red kidney and garbanzo beans are all excellent choices for arthritis patients.
Two cups of beans every week is all that’s needed to reduce inflammation.
“Beans have several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. They’re a low-cost source of fibre, protein, folic acid and minerals such as magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium.
Olive oil
“Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, antioxidants and oleocanthal, a compound that can lower inflammation and pain.
“Extra virgin olive oil is less refined and processed. It retains more nutrients than standard varieties,” the foundation said.
Add two to three tablespoons of olive oil to your diet everyday.