Citrus fruits may assist alleviate painful arthritis signs in weeks

Whether you employ their juice to whip up a refreshing drink or tuck straight in, citrus fruits supply greater than a kick of zesty flavour.

According to Dr Justine Butler, head of analysis at Viva!, the likes of oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes may assist “alleviate” painful arthritis signs.

Arthritis refers to a various set of situations characterised by inflammation within the joints that triggers ache and stiffness.

Dr Butler stated: “Fruit and vegetables are known to be natural sources of bioactive compounds that can benefit our health, such as vitamins C and E, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, carotenoids and fibre. 

“While research supports the role of berries in alleviating inflammation and pain in arthritis, there is also some evidence that compounds found in citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes, may also help alleviate symptoms.”

The purpose why citrus fruits may deal with the painful signs comes right down to their content material of flavonoids and vitamin C, that are thought-about good sources of inflammation-fighting antioxidants.

Dr Butler stated: “Research suggests that citrus flavonoids may suppress inflammation by lowering levels of a compound called tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a). 

“TNF-a is considered one of the main mediators of joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.

“Another study suggests that citrus extracts may help improve knee joint pain and flexibility and reduce C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. 

“CRP is released in the body in response to inflammation and doctors measure levels as part of the diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis.”

However, the skilled defined that CRP ranges are additionally typically increased in these with osteoarthritis. 

So whereas nearly all of the analysis focuses on rheumatoid arthritis, folks with osteoarthritis can also profit from consuming citrus fruits.

What’s extra, one examine instructed that you possibly can begin reaping the potent results inside “weeks”.

Butler stated: “One study looking at the effects of quercetin supplements in women with rheumatoid arthritis, found less morning pain and stiffness, less pain after activity, and fewer tender joints were achieved within eight weeks. 

“The plant pigment quercetin is a potent antioxidant flavonoid found mostly in onions, grapes, berries, cherries, broccoli and citrus fruits and has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.”

The skilled advisable consuming round 150 grams of contemporary fruit per day, together with berries and citruses.

However, Dr Butler urged talking to a health care provider if you happen to take any arthritis medicine earlier than you add citrus fruits to your day by day menu, because the likes of grapefruit may intervene along with your therapy.