6 Foods To Help Maintain Healthy Cartilage

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the world. There are over 3 million cases per year in the United States alone. It occurs when protective tissue, called cartilage, wears down over time.

Cartilage is found in your joints and it works as a padding to keep bones from rubbing together. Once your cartilage starts to wear down, it can cause extreme pain and discomfort.

There is no way to completely reverse the breakdown of cartilage. But there are ways you can manage your symptoms and maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

One helpful way to manage symptoms is to pay attention to your diet. Include foods that promote healthy cartilage and reduce inflammation.

1. Avocados.

Avocados are often called a “super-food” and for a good reason. They contain high amounts of essential vitamins and oils that are very beneficial to the body. They also promote cartilage repair.

2. Grapefruits, Oranges & Other Citrus Fruit.

Citrus fruit contains high levels of vitamin C. Vitamin C is necessary for your body to make collagen, which is an important part of cartilage. You can also eat kiwis, red peppers, and strawberries, which all contain high levels of vitamin C.

3. Brown Rice.

Brown rice contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to treat joint and cartilage problems. It is also present in carrots and beef.

4. Dark Green Leafy Vegetables.

Dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, and chard contain high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants are important for helping to reduce the rate of cartilage breakdown.

5. Walnuts and Brazil Nuts.

Walnuts contain high levels of omega-3 acids, which help to reduce inflammation. Also, Brazil nuts contain selenium, which helps promote healthy cartilage.

6. Green Tea.

The antioxidants in green tea can help to prevent the symptoms of arthritis. The tea helps to reduce inflammation, and is important for protecting and restoring cartilage.

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 *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12755694/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3146294/

https://www.fishertitus.org/health/superfoods-for-healthy-joints

https://arrowheadhealth.com/foods-that-help-rebuild-cartilage/