gelatin supplements, since safe and practical doses of fish oils for arthritis sufferers have yet to be determined.
Also, omega-3 supplements may interfere with blood clotting, so people taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen) or blood thinners (such as warfarin) should not take omega-3 supplements due to the increased risk of stroke or excessive bleeding.
The John Hopkins center suggests that the consumption of fish rich in omega-3s such as salmon, herring, and mackerel is a better alternative, but even healthy people should not consume more than 3 grams daily (through either diet or supplement).
Soy.
High-protein soybeans are also packed with isoflavones, powerful compounds that have been shown to slow down both inflammation and oxidation.
One study, published in the journal Phytomedicine found that study participants who ate 40 grams of soy protein a day experienced more relief from osteoarthritis symptoms than participants consuming 40 grams of milk-derived protein.
However, the beneficial effects, such as increased range of motion and improved quality of life, were found mostly among the men studied.
In any case, talk with your doctor before adding soy supplements to your diet because some safety questions are still unanswered.
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Turmeric.
Curcumin — the active chemical in turmeric — has been used to help prevent ailments for generations in Asian countries, and recent studies show that it helps fight both inflammation and cancer. Spices have been used for thousands of years to enhance food but also to improve health. A review of multiple studies found that curcumin was effective against osteoarthritis pain.
Sugar.
One household staple, sugar, has also been shown to combat pain in a slightly different way, by triggering the release of opiates in the brain. That might explain why doctors hand out so many lollipops. Studies have found that sweet drinks can relieve pain in both babies and adults. Baby boys may even stop crying during circumcision if they have something sweet to drink.
Following a healthy diet may not erase pain, but you’re still bound to feel better, aches and all.