55 Foods for Arthritis and Joint Health

Millions of American suffer from arthritis. 52.5 million to be exact. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports arthritis, characterized by inflammation and loss of function in parts of the body, is a public health problem. The numbers are alarming:

• The number of adults with arthritis is expected to increase to 67 million by 2030.
• Although arthritis is most prevalent among adults aged 65 and older, nearly two-thirds of people with the condition are younger than 65.
• Arthritis is the nation’s most common cause of disability and limits the activities of 22.7 million Americans.
• Nearly half of American adults suffering from arthritis have at least one other chronic disease or condition such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or obesity.

Diet plays a major role in joint health, and the right foods and nutrients can minimize inflammation and make managing arthritis easier.

In general, a joint-friendly diet should include fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, legumes and healthy oils. Look for foods rich in Omega-3 and other heart-healthy fats, and Vitamins C, D and K. Limit or avoid red meat, daily, saturated fat and sugars, which all cause increases in inflammation and pain.

The next time you head to the grocery store, take our list of 55 Arthritis-fighting foods.

Printable Version

Vegetables

1. Bell Pepper
2. Bok Choy
3. Broccoli
4. Cauliflower
5. Celery
6. Collard Greens
7. Egg Plant
8. Garlic
9. Ginger
10. Kale
11. Leeks
12. Onion
13. Shallot
14. Spinach
15. Squash
16. Sweet Potato

Fruits

17. Avocado
18. Apricot
19. Blackberries
20. Blueberries
21. Cherries
22. Grapefruit
23. Grapes
24. Lime
25. Mango
26. Orange
27. Papaya
28. Pineapple
29. Raspberries
30. Strawberries
31. Tangerine

Protein

32. Edamame
33. Herring
34. Kidney Beans
35. Mackerel
36. Pinto Beans
37. Salmon
38. Sardines
39. Soybeans
40. Tofu
41. Trout
42. Tuna

Nuts & Seeds

43. Almonds
44. Flaxseeds
45. Pine Nuts
46. Pistachios
47. Walnuts

Grains

48. Brown Rice
49. Oatmeal

Healthy Oils

50. Avocado Oil
51. Olive Oil
52. Safflower Oil

Liquids

53. Almond Milk
54. Green Tea
55. Water

Download and print our joint-friendly foods list here.