Seniors: Eat These 3 Foods to Help Manage Arthritis

Nobody wants to get arthritis. But as you age, your risk for arthritis goes up.

In fact, almost 50 percent of adults over age 65 develop arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

When you have arthritis, pain, stiffness, and inflammation in your joints make it harder to do things you enjoyed when you were younger. It’s one reason to start making healthy lifestyle choices and developing healthy habits earlier in life. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are two proven ways to help control the symptoms of arthritis, build muscle strength and endurance, and maintain or increase mobility.

But exercise and a healthy weight aren’t the only ways to manage or reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Your diet makes a difference too. These five foods can help, too:

1. Fish

Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids that help your body reduce inflammation, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Fish highest in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel and sardines. Try this new Senior-Friendly fish meal on the menu: Mesquite Smoked Salmon Cake over Brown Rice with Grilled Pineapple, Black Beans and Corn

2. Nuts, seeds, and whole grains

Osteoarthritis puts you at higher risk for high cholesterol, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. But you can lower your risk by eating more nuts, seeds, and whole grains found in oats, cereal, breads, and pastas. Have a piece of whole-grain toast for breakfast, or a small handful of almonds, cashews, or soy nuts as a snack.

And check out these healthy and easy-to-make *whole-grain meals:

• Beef Swedish Meatballs with Whole Grain Rotini, Carrots & Cabbage

• Beef Barley Stew, Brown Rice & Minted Carrots

• Whole Grain Spaghetti And Beef Meatballs, Broccoli, Zucchini & Carrots - Individual Meal

3. Leafy-green vegetables

Leafy-green vegetables are low in calories, but high in vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that can help fight inflammation associated with arthritis. Examples of leafy-greens include kale, spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts. Try these meals made with leafy greens:

• Beef Bourguignon, Brown Rice & Broccoli
• Spinach Mushroom Lasagna with Garlic Green Beans
• Turkey Mushroom Sauce Over Rotini Pasta With Spinach

For more Senior-Friendly meals, check out the complete menu here.

*Some meals may no longer be available, as our menu changes frequently. However, we always have a wide selection for your dietary needs!