Arthritis affects approximately one out of every five people in the United States, and a majority of those affected are seniors. While there’s no cure for arthritis, more and more studies are showing that, like with heart disease and diabetes, following the right diet can greatly alleviate arthritis. Of particular interest are foods that reduce inflammation and promote healthy joints. If your aging loved one is living with arthritis, consider incorporating these foods into his or her diet.
1. High-Sulfur Foods
Sulfur is a nutrient that’s essential to maintaining healthy connective tissues and cartilage in the joints. High-sulfur foods include garlic, onions, eggs, asparagus, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.
2. Vitamin C–Rich Foods
Vitamin C has been shown to slow the process of joint degeneration and promote the development of collagen, which is essential for healthy joints. Vitamin C–rich foods include citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, leafy green vegetables, cauliflower, and some beans.
Living with arthritis pain can make it difficult to manage the tasks of everyday life. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Harrisburg Home Care, a leading provider of elder care. Harrisburg seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable caregivers.
3. Salmon & Other Fatty Fish
Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are powerful anti-inflammatories. They’re also a good source of vitamin D, which has been shown to reduce the progression of osteoarthritis in particular.
4. Curries
If your loved one enjoys Indian food, encourage him or her to dig into those curries as much as possible. Curries are made with a variety of spices, including turmeric, which is a potent anti-inflammatory.
A professional caregiver can prepare meals that contain the essential nutrients your parent needs to enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare. Harrisburg Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
5. Olive Oil
Like salmon and fatty fish, olive oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids. It also has the advantage of being rich in polyphenols, which also have anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Berries
The pigment that makes berries dark contains a chemical called anthocyanin. This is a powerful antioxidant that promotes joint health and is found in cherries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries.
7. Ginger
Most people associate the use of ginger with the treatment of nausea, but it has also been shown to reduce pain and stiffness in the joints, and it can be used in baked goods or brewed as a tea.
A diet including the foods listed above can reduce painful arthritis inflammation and promote overall joint health. When combined with appropriate exercise and other lifestyle changes, this holistic approach toward arthritis management can mean a better quality of life for your loved one.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Harrisburg seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Harrisburg Home Care at (717) 200-7406 today.