Rheumatoid arthritis explained by NHS doctor
Arthritis is a relatively common condition in the UK that can make everyday life painful and difficult.
Depending on the type of arthritis you have it can lead to pain and inflammation of the joints as well as mobility issues.
In some cases it can be caused by the wear and tear of the joints or injuries.
However, it can also be triggered by the body’s immune system targeting joints, as is the case with rheumatoid arthritis.
Whatever the cause of your arthritis, your diet could help ease symptoms, according to one expert.
READ MORE ‘I’m an arthritis expert – eat these foods to stop aches and pains this winter’
Thomas Appelbee, founder and mobility expert at Fenetic Wellbeing, recommended four specific meals to eat in the morning for this very reason.
Eggs and spinach breakfast wrap
This is an “excellent, nutrient-rich meal” to start your day, Thomas said.
He explained: “Eggs, more specifically egg yolks, are a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in calcium absorption.
“Without an adequate amount of vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium efficiently. This can result in weaker bones, leaving you more susceptible to fractures or joint problems.
“Spinach has a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, calcium and magnesium, that are essential for bone strength and joint function.
“Vitamin K helps in the process of binding calcium to bone proteins to make our bones strong and resilient.
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“Without sufficient vitamin K, calcium can’t effectively anchor to your bones – this can lead to weaker bones and an increased risk of fractures. “
Salmon and avocado toast
This meal could tackle the inflammation that comes with arthritis.
“Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties that are known to reduce joint pain and inflammation,” Thomas said.
“Salmon is also a good source of protein; this is crucial for maintaining and repairing joint tissues as well as promoting muscle strength to support joint function.”
The type of bread you use for the toast can also make a difference.
Thomas continued: “Opting for wholegrain bread can help to reduce inflammation in your joints.
“Wholegrain bread has a variety of anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions such as arthritis.”
Oatmeal with almonds and nut butter
According to Thomas, a bowl of porridge with almonds, dried fruits and nut butter is a “stellar” choice for bolstering bone and joint health.
He said: “Oats are a great source of magnesium, a mineral that helps in promoting bone strength.
“Magnesium plays a crucial role in activating vitamin D, which in turn aids in the absorption of calcium.
“For vitamin D to work effectively and assist in calcium absorption, it needs sufficient amounts of magnesium to help it be transformed into its active form within the body.”
Oats also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate joint discomfort by reducing chronic inflammation.
“Anti-inflammatory foods like oats can help ease pain and symptoms associated with joint conditions like arthritis,” he added.
Smoothie bowl
Depending on your tastes, everyone’s smoothie bowl can be different, however, some of the “key” ingredients are good for bone and joint health.
Thomas said: “Dairy products such as milk or yoghurt are key ingredients in smoothie bowls and are naturally high in calcium.
“Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for overall bone and joint health. It is a key component of bone tissue and helps to form the building blocks of bones.
“Red berries are rich in antioxidants that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in your joints, which in turn can help alleviate joint pain.
“Spinach is a popular choice to blend into your smoothie bowls. It is rich in vitamin K, which plays a role in binding calcium to bone protein to create strong and healthy bones.
“Chia seeds can be used to top your smoothie bowl. They are full of omega-3 fatty acids so are good for reducing inflammation.”
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