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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

  1. Avocado
  2. Apricot
  3. Blackberries
  4. Blueberries
  5. Cherries
  6. Grapefruit
  7. Grapes
  8. Lime
  9. Mango
  10. Orange
  11. Papaya
  12. Pineapple
  13. Raspberries
  14. Strawberries
  15. Tangerine

Protein

  1. Edamame
  2. Herring
  3. Kidney Beans
  4. Mackerel
  5. Pinto Beans
  6. Salmon
  7. Sardines
  8. Soybeans
  9. Tofu
  10. Trout
  11. Tuna

Nuts & Seeds

  1. Almonds
  2. Flaxseeds
  3. Pine Nuts
  4. Pistachios
  5. Walnuts

Grains

  1. Brown Rice
  2. Oatmeal

Healthy Oils

  1. Avocado Oil
  2. Olive Oil
  3. Safflower Oil

Liquids

  1. Almond Milk
  2. Green Tea
  3. Water

Download and print our joint-friendly foods list here.