Eat These Spices that Fight Arthritis

 

Instead of adding spices to your food simply to improve the flavor, use these spices to fight arthritis. If you have arthritis, you’ll most likely complain of joint pain and inflammation. Every spice is a complex mix of organic compounds. Research shows that these organic compounds do more than just tickle our taste buds. These spices help fight arthritis pain.

Garlic Fights Arthritis Pain

Research shows that garlic may strengthen the immune system. In one study, researchers followed the diets of 1,082 twins. They found that the twins who ate more garlic had a lower risk of hip osteoarthritis. The researchers believe that this is because garlic has strong anti-inflammatory properties. And just to make you reach for more, remember that garlic and its components have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. They also contain compounds that may lower the risk of heart disease and dementia.

Ginger Fights Arthritis Pain

Add ginger to your tea and soup to ease the symptoms of arthritis. One study assessed the effects of ginger extract in 261 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. After six weeks, 63% of participants experienced improvements in knee pain. It seems that ginger and its components block the production of substances that promote inflammation in the body. You can use fresh, powdered or dried ginger. Take your pick.

Tumeric Fights Arthritis Pain

Tumeric is a yellow-colored powder that comes from the root of the turmeric plant. It is related to the ginger family. The key chemical in turmeric is curcumin. Tumeric seems to have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the pain, inflammation and stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Cinnamon Fights Arthritis Pain

Cinnamon comes from tree bark. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the powder seems to inhibit cell damage and in this way reduce arthritis pain. Studies show that the cinnamaldehyde and other organic compounds in cinnamon act as anti-inflammatory agents. Cinnamon does two other things too: it prevents tissue damage at the joints and it inhibits the ways that that our bodies break down bone. Two grams of cinnamon per day (about half a teaspoon) is all it takes. You can add the spice to your coffee, breakfast cereal or sprinkle it on top of your toast. If you like, add a dash of sugar for a sweeter taste.