7 Foods that Can Help Fight Inflammation

15962296_S_grains_bread_grapes_tomatoes_olive_oil_ basket_celery.jpg

This month, we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle recognize Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis, which is an umbrella term that includes over 100 different disorders that affect the joints and skeletal system, is not just a disease that strikes senior citizens. It’s estimated that approximately 300,000 children in the U.S. have arthritis. One factor that can help with symptoms of arthritis is diet.

Eat for Less Pain

No one diet that can claim it is effective in treating arthritis. However, there are some ways that food children and adults with arthritis eat can reduce joint pain and inflammation. A nutritious and balanced diet is a good starting point. Being overweight puts extra strain on your joints, particularly those in your lower extremities. Eating a balanced diet that is low in sugar and fat will help your child maintain a healthy weight.

Another reason to limit sugar intake is that it has been linked to an inflammatory response. Other foods have been shown to help reduce inflammation. These include:

  1. Olive oil

  2. Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids (tuna, mackerel, and salmon are good examples)

  3. Vitamin K- rich veggies such as spinach, lettuce, kale and broccoli

  4. Fruits and vegetables—particularly red and purple fruits like strawberries, cherries, and strawberries

  5. Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits

  6. Nuts such as pistachios, almonds, walnuts, and pine nuts

  7. Beans (pinto, red kidney, garbanzo, and black)

Know the Signs of Arthritis

Be aware of the symptoms of arthritis in children. Common ones include joint pain, swelling, rashes and/or redness around a joint and fever. Signs that your child is experiencing knee, foot or ankle pain can be a lack of interest in games and sports they have formally enjoyed, sitting out when other children are playing and complaints that their legs are tired. If you note any of these, make an appointment at our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your child and determine if arthritis may be present.

arthritis, DietPasco-Hernando Foot & Ankleinflammation, arthritis, proper nutrition