Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people in the United States. It is caused by the breakdown and loss of cartilage in the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are things that you can do to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
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The right foods can make a big difference
One of the most important things that you can do is to eat a healthy diet. Certain foods have been shown to be beneficial for people with osteoarthritis and can help to heal joints and prevent the progression of the disease. Some of these foods include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for both overall health and joint health. They can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, as well as improve mobility. Some good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, trout, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
- Green leafy vegetables – Green leafy vegetables are high in antioxidants and minerals, which can help to protect joints from damage. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy cartilage. Some good options include kale, spinach, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
- Bone broth – Bone broth is high in collagen and minerals like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which are beneficial for joint health. It can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, as well as improve mobility. Bone broth can be made at home or purchased from stores or online.
Following a healthy diet is one of the most important things you can do to manage your osteoarthritis symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. There are many different foods that are beneficial for joint health, so try to incorporate as many of them into your diet as possible.
Some food to avoid with Osteoarthritis
There are many foods that should not be eaten by a person with osteoarthritis. The main reason is that these foods can worsen the symptoms and make the disease progress more quickly.
Some of the worst offenders include:
- Sugary foods and drinks: These can cause inflammation in the joints and make them swell. This is because sugar triggers the release of cytokines, which are proteins that cause inflammation.
- Processed meats: These meats are high in saturated fats, which can damage the cartilage in the joints. They can also increase your risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart disease, that can worsen osteoarthritis symptoms.
- Refined grains: Foods like white bread, pasta, and rice are high in carbohydrates and can spike blood sugar levels. This can lead to inflammation in the joints over time.
- Fried foods: Fried foods are loaded with unhealthy fats that can damage the joints. They can also increase your risk of obesity, which is a major risk factor for developing osteoarthritis.
Don’t go it alone work with an Orthopedic Specialist
If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, you’re not alone. This common form of arthritis affects millions of people in the United States. While there is no cure for the condition, your orthopedic specialist can help you manage your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that will help improve your quality of life.
One important part of managing osteoarthritis is diet. As we’ve discussed above, some foods can help slow the progression of the disease, while others may aggravate your symptoms. Your specialist can help you find foods that are good for you and that will help reduce inflammation and pain. Additionally, they can recommend exercises that can improve your range of motion and flexibility.
Our orthopedic specialists can also recommend treatments such as medications, injections, or surgery if necessary. If you’re experiencing significant pain or disability due to osteoarthritis, surgery may be the best option for you. Talk to your specialist about your treatment options in order to make the best decision for you.