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10. Onions and Garlic
Foods from the allium family (think onions, leeks and garlic) are pretty powerful tools in your quest for comfortable joints. Not only do they improve respiratory health, but studies have shown that certain compounds in these veggies can directly impact arthritis symptoms and progression: diallyl disulphine (found in garlic) may reduce cartilage-damaging enzymes in the body, and quercetin (a flavonoid found in onions) is known to inhibit inflammation-causing proteins, hormones and histamines in both OA and RA patients. With few calories, no fat, and a bundle of proactive compounds, everyone should work more garlic and onions into their diet.
What you don’t eat can be just as important as what you do eat to manage your arthritis. Saturated fats and trans fats are at the top of that list – they feed inflammation, and lead to weight gain, which will put more stress on the joints. Refined grains also lead to more inflammation, encouraging the production of cytokines, and making arthritis symptoms worse. Get in the habit of adding flavor with fresh herbs, a variety of spices, and a colorful array of veggies instead of fat and salt.
Read more about nutrition for osteoarthritis patients and nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis patients over at NewLifeOutlook.
If you've tried other treatment options for arthritis that haven't worked, then clinical trials for arthritis may be an option for you. Learn more here.