As an inflammatory condition, arthritis can be non-surgically managed on two main fronts: internally (diet) and externally (exercise and activity modification).
When it comes to internal management, there has been increasing support for the power of an anti-inflammatory diet. The idea is simple: minimise the pro-inflammatory foods and maximise anti-inflammatory ones.
Common pro-inflammatory foods are typically high in sugar, trans fats and gluten.
Foods potent with anti-inflammatory properties include those that are high in omega-3 fats, antioxidants and anthocyanins. Examples of these are fish, whole grains, dark leafy greens and rich, colourful vegetables.
Turmeric, ginger root and tart cherry juice all contain antioxidants, which also counter inflammation.