The main culprit behind all arthritic conditions is inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and even gout all strike multiple joints with painful inflammation that often causes chronic and debilitating pain and mobility issues. While there is no specific cure for arthritis, taking prescribed medications such as Rinvoq, Advil, Xeljanz, Humira, Voltaren and including certain inflammation fighting foods in your daily diet may help significantly reduce arthritis symptoms and the frequency of arthritic flare ups. Read on for some satisfying snack ideas that also help ease arthritis symptoms:
1. Pistachios
They offer a satisfying crack (when you’re popping them out of the shell) and a satisfying crunch (when you’re popping them in your mouth. Pistachios (as well as walnuts and almonds) are the perfect satisfying snack between meals because they’re rich in fiber, calcium, zinc, vitamin E, and appetite-satiating protein. Plus the heart-healthy fats within promote weight loss and naturally reduce osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain.
2. Cherries
Cherries, and tart cherry juice, have long been used by gout patients to reduce painful symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. Yet medical studies show that eating and drinking the juice of unsweetened cherries can benefit all forms of arthritis. This dark red fruit contains anthocyanins, a plant chemical with natural anti-inflammatory benefits. Anthocyanins can also be had in most dark hued berries (i.e., blueberries, blackberries, purple strawberries, and raspberries). So what are you waiting for, it’s berry-berry smoothie time!
3. Orange slices
There’s a reason why parents cut up juicy orange slices for after a soccer or baseball game. Not only are these citrus fruits tasty, they also offer just the right about of vitamin C and natural sweetness without any added sugar. You can get great sources of vitamin C, a natural antioxidant (and anti-inflammatory) via oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes. Vitamin C is a known protector of joints and may help ease osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
4. Salmon
All types of fatty fish are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, aka: inflammation-fighting goodness. Yet salmon might not be top of mind when you consider snacks to help ease your arthritis pain. Doctors often recommend salmon in all forms—smoked salmon, grilled salmon, and even canned salmon (especially with bones in) contain healthy fats, vitamin D, and calcium, which all work to support bones and fight inflammation. So try some smoked salmon on a bagel or whip up some salmon cakes using a can of salmon, and enjoy!
5. Whole grain cereal
There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of cereal for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. The good news is that research shows that whole grainy goodness found in oats, rye, spelt, and brown rice does it’s part to reduce inflammation. Specifically, whole grain foods inflammatory markers of C-reactive protein (CRP) within the blood, lowering the frequency and severity of rheumatoid arthritis. So opt for whole grains—in cereal with sliced bananas, yogurt parfaits, and in your baking.
