Foods That Promote Joint Health
How healthy are your food choices?
I talk to patients in my San Diego Chiropractic Office everyday who rain accolades on their healthy diet choices. Sometimes patients who are either obese or border line obese tell me all about their healthy diet choices while they are sucking down a venti Pumpkin Spiced Latte that contains 61 grams of sugar, 20 grams of saturated fat and 510 calories. The problem is that many people don’t read labels or consider nutritional content so they simply are unaware of what they are consuming and how it affects them.
My prior blog post covered specific foods to avoid in order to benefit your joint health. This post will provide a list of foods that have a positive impact on your joints and your health in general.
There are specific foods that promote joint health, weight loss and your general health – you simply have to choose them over the sugar filled, high caloric and fat saturated choices that seem to be so accessible. Below is a list of foods that will make you healthier and happier with less joint pain.
1) Shrimp: Shrimp shells contain high levels of glucosamine which helps combat inflammation of the joints. Lobster and crab are also good sources of glucosamine.
2) Salmon: Salmon is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids that have tremendous benefits for joint health. Salmon also helps with weight control and heart health. The fat composition of salmon also has a great ratio of omega 3s to omega 6s and its health-supportive balance of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats has also been shown.
3) Almonds: Almonds contain the same omega 3 fatty acids found in salmon. They also are a good source of vitamin E and manganese. Manganese helps your body utilize glucosamine in your body to better promote joint health.
4) Pineapples: Pineapples contain an element called bromelain, which has been shown to have remarkable healing properties. Bromelain has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can be superior to that of some drugs.
5) Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil more antioxidant benefits compared to regular olive oil. Antioxidants help extract free radicals in your body that contribute to inflammation and joint pain.
6) Red Peppers: Red peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. The antioxidants in peppers help prevent cell damage, cancer, diseases related to aging, and they reduce inflammatory processes that found in arthritis and asthma. Peppers are also high in fiber and can help in weight loss.
7) Avocados: Avocados provide powerful antioxidants and can help fight arthritis and subsequently reduce joint pain.
8) Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps fight arthritis.
9) Ginger: Ginger helps block the effects of prostaglandins that cause inflammation. As little as a half teaspoon in a cup of tea can reduce arthritis pain.
In addition to this list there are many other foods that will help you lose weight and prevent joint pain. This list represents a good start for a proactive dietary approach toward better joint health.
Have a great day.
Dr. Steve Jones
Click Here For Your San Diego Chiropractor
(619) 280-0554
