Osteoarthritis of the knee occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears away over time. Typically this cartilage is made to prevent the bones from coming into contact one another, but once it wears away, the bones will touch each other freely as the joint moves.

The good news is that some dietary choices have been shown to boost the health of knee joints and lessen the impact that osteoarthritis of the knee can have on your life over time.

By fighting the impacts that inflammation has on the body, eating anti-inflammatory foods can be a great asset for your knees, both now and in the future. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Spring Hill shares some insight.

How Does Food Help Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

When inflammation occurs, your body will produce free radicals as a response, which can cause oxidative stress on cells and tissues in the body—including the cartilage that plays a crucial role in keeping your knee cushioned and pain-free.

Antioxidants are substances found in food to protect your body from these free radicals, and while they are naturally found in your body, they can also be obtained from a healthy diet made up of certain fruits and vegetables.

Arthritis Symptoms

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Redness
• Diminished range of motion

What Foods Can I Eat for Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

As a general rule of thumb, following an “anti-inflammatory diet” is good if you have developed osteoarthritis of the knee or are trying to reduce your chances of doing so.

There are many foods that can help you reduce inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

• Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries and raspberries
• Foods that contain the good kinds of fat, such as fish, avocados and foods cooked in olive oil
• Broccoli, cauliflower and kale
• Green tea
• Turmeric
• Dark chocolate and chocolates that are high in cocoa

If you are suffering from sudden knee pain, we can help you determine what the cause is. Your AFC Urgent Care of Spring Hill team is always here to provide you with quick, quality treatment. Contact us today to set up a time to visit.