Do you know that, it’s not just what you consume, but, also what you prefer drinking that can affect arthritis? Most of you do not think much about your beverages, but you should.
Just 1 soda, for example, contains much added sugar as you should have in an entire day from any source. While that morning coffee could be a smart, and antioxidant-rich way to start your day, or a cream-and-sugar laden gut bomb, depending on how it is prepared.
Below are 7 drinks that have been reported to reduce the symptoms or occurrence of arthritis. It’s all about preventing inflammation.
Top 7 Beverages for Arthritis:
1. Juices
Tomato, orange, carrot and pineapple juices are all rich in vitamin C, which means they contain antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals that lead to inflammation. Tart cherry juice has been reported to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and protect against gout flares.
But, be sensible when drinking juice, as it is high in sugar and calories. Talk with your doctor if you are a fan of grapefruit juice, because it can alter or inactivate the effect of many medications.
2. Milk
Some will say that you have to go dairy-free when diagnosed with arthritis, but there’s no research to suggest that’s really the case. Studies showed no difference between RA patients who are on a dairy-free diet, and those who still consume it.
Drinking milk may help in preventing gout and in fighting the progression of osteoarthritis. Choose low-fat milk to avoid consuming extra saturated fat and calories.
3. Red Wine
Red wine contains a compound known as resveratrol, which is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of red wine has been associated with a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
But, you must drink it in moderation. Too much wine, or alcohol of any kind, does the opposite of what you want. It inflames tissues, while also causing dehydration, leaving joints swollen and achy. To get the benefits of red wine, stick to 1 glass daily for women and 2 for men.
4. Tart Cherry Juice
Many juices are high in vitamin C that can provide strong antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants can help neutralize the free radicals that cause bodily inflammation.
But, fruit juice is high in calories and sugar, with none of the fiber found in whole fruit. It is better to just eat the fruit rather than drink juice.
Tart cherry juice is the exception to this, as it has been reported to prevent flare-ups of gout, while also reducing osteoarthritis symptoms. If you already have arthritis a juice which you might want to avoid is grapefruit juice, as this juice alters the effect of various medications.
5. Smoothies
Smoothies are healthier compared to plain juice because they retain the fiber of the whole fruit. Also, smoothies are great way to eat your vegetables, especially ones that you do not like so much on their own.
Adding some kale or spinach with a banana and berry blend may make the color less appetizing, but you will not even taste it!
You can add some yogurt to get your probiotics, which are good bacteria that maintaining the health of your gut, while also decreasing inflammation.
6. Tea
Tea is one of the most-studied drinks when it comes to the benefits for arthritis patients. White, green, and black teas are all rich in polyphenols, which are compounds from plants that contain strong anti-inflammatory effects.
The highest polyphenol levels can be found in white and green teas. Green tea is considered as the most beneficial of all becuase of it’s active ingredient, polyphenol or known as epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG). When it comes to antioxidant activity, EGCG has been reported to be as much as 100 times stronger than vitamins E and C. Studies showed it also helps preserve bone and cartilage, although there are no widespread controlled trials of it in individuals with arthritis.
7. Water
If there is a magical elixir to drink, it is water. Hydration is essential for flushing toxins out of your body, which can help fight inflammation.
Adequate water intake can help keep your joints well lubricated, while also preventing gout attacks. Drinking water before your meal can also help you eat less, therefore, promoting weight loss.
Experts say do not bother wasting money on enhanced waters. The added amount of electrolytes, nutrients, or antioxidants is generally miniscule.
Sources:
Arthritis.org
HHDResearch.org
Related Articles:
- 7 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis
- Pineapple Juice: For Asthma Prevention, Fights Arthritis, Joint Pain, and More
- Bitter Kola for Relieving Arthritis, Improving Male Fertility and More
photo credit: pixabay