How Your Diet Can Impact Your Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that affects about 27 million people in the United States. Accordingly, arthritis is a chronic condition in which the material that cushions the joints breaks down causing the bones to rub against each other leading to stiffness, pain, and loss of joint movement. Normally, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet is important for just about anyone but if you have osteoarthritis, it is particularly important that you maintain a well-balanced diet.
Some healthy diet tips to keep in mind if you are living with osteoarthritis can include:
Eating more fruits and vegetables
Naturally, fruits and vegetables are always healthy food choices to include in your diet. Some fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that may help protect your cells from damage and may also help reduce joint inflammation, such as apples, onions, and strawberries.
Cutting extra calories
How much you weight is a factor in preventing and treating osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that obese individuals who lost even just a small amount of their weight can reduce their risk for knee osteoarthritis. If you already have osteoarthritis, reducing your weight can help to prevent the disease from further advancing.
Using olive oil in place of other fats
Some studies have shown that olive oil contains a compound (oleocanthal) that helps to prevent inflammation so consider adding olive oil to your diet in place of other fats such as butter.
Getting enough Vitamin C
Vitamin C is beneficial for joint health because it helps build collagen and connective tissue. Foods such as citrus fruits, red peppers, strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, and kale are all great sources of Vitamin C.
Adding Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help relieve joint pain and decrease morning stiffness. Some of the best sources of omega-3s include fish such as trout, salmon, mackerel, herring, tuna, and sardines.
Osteoarthritis often progresses quite slowly over time so that there may be periods of time when you do not experience any acute symptoms. Initially, many over-the-counter remedies such as nonprescription pain relievers can help to manage your symptoms. However, if you begin to experience acute symptoms of osteoarthritis, it may be time to seek medical attention. Come into your nearest Healthpointe Urgent Care location today to obtain immediate medical attention for your osteoarthritis symptoms.
For more in formation about how we can help, call 888-719-8448 or visit any of our Location such as, our office in Corona near Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles county, Orange county, San Bernardino county and Riverside county). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Temecula, which is conveniently located near Murrieta, Fallbrook, Wildomar, Canyon Lake, and Sun City. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit healthpointe.net.