>Inflammatory Diseases:

Many people as they age have some difficulties with age related osteoarthritis, but some have an inflammatory condition called Rheumatoid Arthritis, and this can strike at any age.

If you have this problem, you will feel better with an improved diet.

Here are some tips from the magazine RA and You. An article written by Karen Kennedy.
1. Eat fish- studies continue to show that fish and fish oil can help reduce tender joints

2. Eat more fiber– boost your intake of fruits, veggies and whole grain. This will reduce inflammation
Strawberries, either fresh or frozen seem to help the most!

3. Olive Oil- Extra virgin olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties. Start using olive oil more often instead of other oils and butter

4. Milk- good sources of vitamin D help with inflammation. Examples: eggs, fortified breads and cereals, and low fat milk.

5. Take vitamins: Some people who have inflammatory disorders are also deficient in vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, vitamins C, D  B6, B12, E and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, Zinc and selenium.

Remember that the vitamins and minerals in foods are the best way to get your daily supply.

6. Begin to eat a Mediterranean Diet which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids ( salmon), and even a glass of red wine with your doctor’s ok!

Taken in part from: Kennedy, K ( 2012) Food Fight: Tips on Curbing Inflammation one bite at a time.  RA and You. Arthritis Foundation
With all forms of arthritis, exercise and diet are important for control of the disease. Weight bearing and flexibility exercising such as walking and yoga can be very helpful and healing for arthritis.