Dietary Tips for Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects the joints. It is most common in the elderly but has been widely linked to people who are overweight. There is no definitive cure for osteoarthritis, but there are many ways that one can help prevent and treat the condition. By far the easiest of these osteoarthritis treatments is to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.

If you believe that you may be suffering from osteoarthritis or any kind of arthritic condition the first thing you must do is visit you local GP. A qualified doctor will quickly establish if your symptoms are caused by an arthritic condition, and will give you the best advice as to how to treat it. This may involve anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relief drugs or may be as simple as suggesting a new exercise routine and improved diet.

There has always been strong links between food and the treatment of osteoarthritis and other arthritic conditions. So what foods are considered good?

The main types of food that may help treat osteoarthritis are those rich in Vitamin D. We get most of our vitamin D from the sun; however such foods as oily fish and fortified foods such as cereals and margarines are also good sources of Vitamin D.

Vitamin C as always, is good for the treatment of Osteoarthritis. Vitamin C is involved in the formation of collagen and proteoglycans, which are two of the main components of cartilage. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant that can help counteract chemicals in the body that can damage cartilage. Vitamin C is a vital part of any healthy diet, it is therefore important to ensure you have a regular intake. The best way to do this is by following the government's 5-a-day policy. Try to east 5 different portions of fruit and veg a day; this will help boost your immune system and general health.

Another good food source is those rich in Omega-3. Omega-3 is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which may help reduce pain associated with arthritic conditions. Omega-3 is most commonly found in oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines. You should try to eat at least to portions of oily fish a week.

As well as maintaining a healthy balanced diet, many doctors will also encourage regular exercise as part of your osteoarthritis treatment. Swimming is a great way to help strengthen the muscle that surrounds the joints. Try to avoid strenuous exercise that involves stress to the joints. Walking, cycling and swimming are all great ways to supplement your healthy diet, with valuable exercise.

Having an arthritic condition is an unpleasant thing to live with. However, the days of silently suffering are long gone. Today there are many treatments for osteoarthritis that will help ease both the pain and comfort of the condition to help you live as normally as possible. Obviously the same goes for those without an arthritic condition, it is always best to eat healthily and exercise regularly as this can help you prevent such conditions.