It is becoming clearer that there are ways to deal with arthritis pain other than taking pills. Evidence is emerging that eating certain foods and in certain ways can help to reduce joint pain, and to possibly slow the process of osteoarthritis. If you want to reduce the pain in your joints and live a more active lifestyle, try the various ideas and foods below. Also, some of these foods and diets (such as Mediterranean) have other health benefits as well, including cardiovascular benefits.

• Eat a Mediterranean diet – Studies are still limited on the benefits of this diet for arthritis, but this style of eating is full of foods that reduce inflammation in the body, which is a key to cutting arthritis pain. Eat plenty of fatty fish, olives and olive oil, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Eating Mediterranean style also is good for the heart and the waistline.
• Tart cherry juice – This juice has been found in clinical studies to reduce muscle and joint soreness. A small study of 20 women found that drinking 11 ounces twice per day reduced joint inflammation majorly. This is most likely due to the high amounts of anthocyanins in the juice.
• Spices – Specifically, try to cook with lots of ginger and turmeric, which help to reduce inflammation in the body.
• No more wheat – Some arthritis sufferers have wheat sensitivity that seems to cause joint aches. Cutting out wheat can really make a difference.
• Omega-3 – A diet that is high in omega-3 fatty acids from fish really helps people with rheumatoid arthritis, because the fatty acids reduce inflammation throughout the body. One study found that fish oil supplements can improve cartilage growth in guinea pigs.

Also, remember that there are many foods that you should avoid, as they tend to increase inflammation in the body. These include fried and processed foods, such as fried meats, cookies and crackers and prepared frozen meals. Also, avoid sugar and refined carbs, such as candy, white flour sweets and sugared sodas.

In the Kitchen

If you do suffer from arthritis pain or are otherwise disabled, we recommend that you try some of these handy arthritis kitchen supplies. The UnSkru Jar Opener is wonderful for opening jars with one hand. The Easi-Grip Bread Knife makes cutting bread (whole grain!) easy with one hand. And, the Easi-Grip Forked Knife has a forked end that helps to hold food with your good hand.