Eating nuts, fish and veg eases pain of arthritis

A DIET of fish, nuts and vegetables could help to ease the pain of arthritis, research has found.

 

Diet of fish, nuts and vegetables could help ease some pain of arthritis

 

Everyday staples such as tinned sardines, Brazil nuts and broccoli may help alleviate the symptoms of the debilitating condition.

Cherries, tumeric, ginger, mushrooms, kale, garlic and olive oil could also reduce inflammation in the joints, say researchers.

Arthritis affects 10 million people in the UK.

 

 

A handful of Brazil nuts contains enough selenium to boost immunity

 

It is caused when cartilage between bones erodes, causing joints to rub together, leading to pain and inflammation in the hands, spine, knees and hips.

Our research shows lots of over-50s are quick to go on a diet as soon as January 1 comes round

Kevin McMullan of Saga

 

Cheap superfoods, when taken alongside medication, can make a “huge difference” to sufferers, research by health insurers Saga has revealed.

A handful of Brazil nuts contains enough selenium to boost immunity and could slow the progression of arthritis by fighting inflammation.

And just one weekly portion of oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as sardines, could halve the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Cherries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric and ginger also have anti-inflammatory effects, while garlic, leeks and onions can limit the amount of cartilage-damaging enzymes.

And broccoli contains the naturally occurring chemical sulforaphane, which could prevent or slow the progress of osteoarthritis.

The study comes as a poll found that a third of over-50s plan to diet in the new year.

 

Cheap superfoods, when taken alongside medication, can make a difference to sufferers

 

Kevin McMullan of Saga said: “Our research shows lots of over-50s are quick to go on a diet as soon as January 1 comes round. Perhaps this is because they understand extra weight can put unwanted pressure on joints.

“As well trying to shed a few pounds, people can eat themselves healthy by opting for things like broccoli, oily fish and garlic that can be nutritious and can help prevent illnesses such as arthritis.”

Arthritis Research UK commented: “While diets and supplements won’t cure arthritis, eating a healthy, balanced and varied diet is good for overall health and wellbeing.”