what foods are good for arthritis - #26255
I am really trying to figure out what foods are good for arthritis because my grandma has been dealing with a lot of pain lately. She can barely move her knees and I feel so helpless! She told me that her doctor mentioned something about diet but didn't go into specifics. We’ve tried to incorporate more fruits and veggies, but she also loves her comfort foods like pasta and bread, and it’s hard to find a balance!! I read somewhere that olive oil and fish might be good, but she hates fish and would rather have fried chicken than salmon. It’s frustrating because the evenings are tough. She gets more sore and uncomfortable, especially after dinner. Like, do the foods actually make a difference? What are the specific foods that are good for arthritis? I feel like every time I search online, I get super confusing info. One site says eat more turmeric, and another says avoid nightshades. Should we be cutting certain foods from her meals? What foods are good for arthritis that are still tasty? Anyone tried swapping out regular cooking oils for something like avocado oil? She really needs help because those pain relief meds don't seem to be cutting it. Would love to hear any advice from you all!
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Doctors' responses
When it comes to managing arthritis through diet, certain foods can indeed play a role in reducing inflammation and easing symptoms. Key players are anti-inflammatory foods, which may help alleviate some of the discomfort. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, are known to have strong anti-inflammatory effects, but if fish isn’t an option, consider supplements like fish oil capsules after discussing with her doctor. Olive oil is another great choice; it’s rich in oleocanthal, which has properties similar to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), so using it as a staple cooking oil can be beneficial. Avocado oil is another good option due to its similar healthy fat profile. Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is fantastic, as they’re high in antioxidants and vitamins that combat inflammation; think berries, cherries, broccoli, and spinach. Whole grains like quinoa and brown rice can replace refined carbohydrates and might help maintain balanced energy levels. Regarding nightshades – such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants – some anecdotal accounts suggest they might aggravate arthritis in certain people, though scientific evidence is not definitive. If she notices a particular trigger, it could be worth her while to limit those. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Including it in cooking or as a supplement might aid her symptoms, but it’s always best to confirm with her healthcare provider. Balancing comfort foods with these anti-inflammatory choices can hopefully provide some relief, and it’s crucial to maintain a nutritious, realistic plan that she can stick to. Reducing processed foods and those high in sugar can also be beneficial, as they might contribute to inflammation. Remember to keep any lifestyle changes aligned with her overall care plan and consult her healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes to ensure they’re in harmony with any existing treatments or medications.
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