Finding relief from arthritis might be closer than you think. Apart from chiropractic care, incorporating certain nutrients into your diet can significantly improve arthritis symptoms. Dr Brian Nantais of Nantais Family Chiropractic, an esteemed expert at Elevation Health Clinic in Canada, recommends focusing on calcium and specific vitamins to alleviate arthritis-related issues. In this blog, we will go through the benefits of these nutrients and how they contribute to managing arthritis.
Arthritis is a group of conditions involving joint inflammation, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The most common arthritis types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While medical treatments are available, adopting a holistic approach that includes proper nutrition can be invaluable in improving the quality of life for those with arthritis.
Calcium is popular for its potential in maintaining strong bones and teeth. However, its significance in arthritis management is often overlooked. Dr Brian Nantais of Nantais Family Chiropractic explains that adequate calcium intake helps slow down bone loss, benefiting those with arthritis, especially osteoarthritis. Ensuring sufficient calcium levels in your diet can help preserve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and joint deterioration.
Quality dietary sources of calcium are dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, and cheese. For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options, fortified plant milk, tofu, almonds, and leafy greens like kale and broccoli are excellent alternatives.
Vitamin D works hand in hand with calcium, as it aids in calcium absorption from the digestive tract and regulates calcium levels in the blood. This powerful duo is crucial in maintaining bone health and joint function, making it essential for arthritis management.
While we can get vitamin D from limited dietary sources like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified foods, sunlight is the best and most natural source of vitamin D. Spending time outdoors in the sun can help our bodies synthesize vitamin D, promoting healthier bones and potentially alleviating arthritis symptoms.
Vitamin C is renowned among experts and is recommended for its immune-boosting properties, but it also plays a vital role in collagen synthesis. Collagen is a crucial component of cartilage, the flexible tissue cushions our joints. Ensuring an adequate vitamin C intake supports the body’s ability to maintain healthy cartilage and minimize joint pain associated with arthritis.
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and strawberries are excellent sources of vitamin C. Incorporating these fruits into your diet can provide the necessary nutrients for collagen formation and joint health.
Omega-3 fatty acids is known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis. These healthy fats help reduce inflammation, decreasing joint pain and stiffness.
Fatty fishes like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich sources of omega-3s. Plant-based options like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts can also provide these essential fatty acids.
When it comes to managing arthritis, a comprehensive approach that includes both chiropractic care and proper nutrition can make all the difference in your quality of life. Dr Brian Nantais of Nantais Family Chiropractic at Elevation Health Clinic in Canada encourages incorporating the above nutrients into your diet to support joint health and reduce arthritis symptoms.
