Although there are different types of arthritis, inflammation, joint stiffness and pain are common symptoms that arthritis sufferers deal with on a daily basis. In some cases, this chronic condition can become so debilitating that it is difficult to perform even the simplest daily tasks. This can, of course, affect your quality of life and ability to enjoy activities at home and on the road.
There are over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help, but if you prefer treating ailments naturally – or would like to complement conventional treatments with natural remedies – you can improve your arthritis symptoms naturally through diet, exercise and herbal supplements.
If you want to treat arthritis naturally by making a few simple changes to your diet, you can do so by increasing your intake of whole grains and antioxidant-rich vegetables, such as carrots, spinach and sweet potatoes. While eating a variety of vegetables is good for your overall health, those with arthritis may want to avoid nightshade vegetables and fruits, such as eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes and potatoes, which can trigger or worsen arthritis symptoms. Dairy products can increase inflammation and should also be avoided. To fight inflammation, try adding foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseed and olive oil.
There are many herbs and spices that have anti-inflammatory properties and can assist in treating arthritis symptoms naturally. These include turmeric, ginger, cayenne pepper, licorice and garlic. Most anti-inflammatory herbs and spices can be easily added to meals during cooking or can be consumed in herbal teas or in capsule form. You can find any of these herbs as capsule supplements at your local health food store, or you can create your own herbal remedies from fresh herbs you purchase or grow.
Low-impact exercise, such as walking, yoga, tai chi or swimming, on a regular basis can increase mobility and reduce arthritis pain. Regular exercise can also assist you in managing your weight, which can reduce arthritis symptoms by decreasing the joint stress caused by carrying excess weight.
Aside from using your diet, exercise program and herbal supplements to control your arthritis symptoms naturally, you can also try a variety of other home remedies. For example, Epsom salt baths, massaging the affected areas with warm olive oil, supplementing with vitamin B6 and vitamin E, and using all-natural creams that contain capsaicin can all help you more fully enjoy your life and live each day with less arthritis pain.
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