Arthritis, in its many forms, causes an extraordinary amount pain and suffering for millions of people around the world. But the good news is there is really much you can do to help relieve the aches and pains of this terrible affliction.
The best place to start is with your daily diet. Just as certain foods contribute to the inflammation and soreness associated with arthritis, there are also other foods that are anti-inflammatory and, therefore, can help alleviate your discomfort.
Begin by eliminating those foods that trigger your arthritis symptoms. Pay close attention to any reaction you get from the food you eat and then make a point to stay away from these foods.
Common foods that trigger arthritic pain for many people include alcohol, fried food, red meat, high fat diary products and eggs. Safflower, corn and sunflower vegetable oils rich in omega 6 fatty acids also seem to set off painful episodes for many arthritic sufferers. Also limit your intake of refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and white pasta.
For a good anti-inflammatory diet stick close to a Mediterranean diet that includes olive oil, whole grains, five to nine daily servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, and at least three to five servings of omega 3 fatty acid rich fish each week. Salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel, tuna and trout are your best choices.
The next thing to do is get plenty of exercise. You may not feel like it if your joints are sore and stiff, but moderate exercise is one of your best alternative treatments for arthritis pain. Improving your flexibility and strengthening your muscles, in the long run, will do wonders for you.
There's no need to go overboard and knock your self out to get relief. All you need is thirty minutes of moderate exercise at least four or five days a week to get the results you're looking for. And your exercise program does not need to be difficult or expensive. Just set aside the time to take a brisk walk around the block or participate in water aerobics on a regular basis. Remember the old saying - Use it or lose it."
Another good way to deal with arthritis pain and discomfort is to use moist heat about twice a day. Wrap your troubled joint in warm moist towels or take a warm shower or bath to get heat to the affected joint. Many people believe a hot sauna works for pain relief.
And, last but not least, consider adding high quality anti-inflammatory fish oil supplements to your daily health regimen. Fish oil has been found to help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.
Try some or all of these natural methods and see what works for you.
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