Many research studies have established the positive relation between arthritis and a healthy diet - how a healthy diet can help fight and prevent the progression of arthritis. Apart from regular exercising and maintaining a healthy body weight, a healthy and well-balanced diet is vital to prevent arthritis from developing in those, who have a higher risk for the condition.

Arthritis is a disorder affecting the body joints. The risk for the condition increases with age, especially after one reaches the age of 40 years. In this disorder, an abnormal inflammation of the joints occurs, with pain and joint stiffness. All the joints of the body are prone to this disorder, including the hip, knee, ankle, wrist, finger, and spine joints.

A healthy and well-balanced diet should include healthy carbohydrates for energy, fiber, and avoid unhealthy fats. Such a healthy diet is beneficial to several body systems in many ways, apart from helping control the development of arthritis. A healthy and balanced diet for arthritis should include the following foods.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, which are found in oily fishes, like sardines, salmon, and in walnuts. It is good for arthritis and a host of medical conditions, such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, lupus (SLE), and many other conditions.
2. Vitamin C and D foods: Many vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, tomatoes, bell peppers, and citrus fruits (lemon, orange), are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin D is found in cereals, oily fishes and fortified food products (milk, bread), besides sunlight.
3. Green leafy vegetables, such as broccolis, cauliflowers, Brussel sprouts, cabbages, etc. of the Brassicaceae family are known to help prevent the onset of arthritis. These vegetables are also known as ‘super vegetables’.
4. Mediterranean diet: A Mediterranean diet is a heart-healthy diet that is loaded with the good properties of any nutritional food ingredients, including olive oil. Olive oil is known to contain strong anti-inflammatory properties and is proven to fight arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis.

Multiple studies have shown that a healthy diet can help control the progression of arthritis. However, it should be understood that eating healthy foods does not cure one of arthritis. Also, it is best to plan your diet regimen with a proper dietitian, especially if you have other health conditions, or if you are overweight.

References:

http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/arthritis-and-daily-life/diet-and-arthritis/how-can-changing-my-diet-help-my-arthritis.aspx (accessed on 03/07/2016)

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/arthritis-of-the-shoulder/ (accessed on 03/07/2016)

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