Studies show a potent antioxidant in green tea called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) blocks the production of molecules that cause joint damage in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To reap the health benefits, drink two or three cups of green tea a day, researchers suggest.
Research on Dietary Use
More than three daily cups of tea reduced the risk of developing RA. Green tea had protective effects against inflammatory diseases like RA, plus heart disease, neurodegenerative disease, and some types of cancer.
Hence, it is recommended that you drink about 7-8 cups of green tea to enjoy the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea extracts.
Studies show that tea may have anti-inflammatory properties. In lab studies, Case Western Reserve University researchers in Cleveland showed EGCG (a substance in green tea) may halt arthritis progression by blocking interleukin-1, a pro-inflammatory cell, from damaging cartilage.
They also have chemicals that regulate your immune system, which can reduce chronic inflammation. Green tea: Tea has antioxidants called catechins, which reduce inflammation. Green tea contains EGCG, the most powerful type of catechin. Other types of tea have this effect too, but green tea has the most benefits.
Minor inflammation often responds well to cold compresses and OTC pain relievers. More severe inflammation may require treatment with corticosteroids taken orally or injected into the joint.
It really depends on the person and their own personal health. Different amounts of green tea every day will benefit you in various ways. For example, in controlled studies, those who drank one to three cups each day had a lower risk of stroke and heart disease than subjects who drank less than one cup.
2–3 cups a day is more than enough to enjoy the positive effects. Just make sure you're not using it as a substitute for water! (And also – this means plain green tea. Consuming large amounts of matcha bubble tea, for example, could cause your blood sugar to spike or give you indigestion.)
According to experts, the safe number of cups of green tea a day is 2-3, depending on the type of green tea and how it is prepared. Some types of green tea are naturally higher in caffeine than others.
Another large Japanese study, this one following more than 82,000 participants over 13 years, found that higher consumption rates of green tea were associated with reduced risk of stroke. Participants who drank four cups per day or more saw the highest benefit.
Tea is one of the most-studied drinks when it comes to its benefits for arthritis patients. Green, black and white teas are all rich in polyphenols – compounds from plants that have strong anti-inflammatory effects. You'll find the highest polyphenol levels in green and white teas.
Honey and cinnamon are typically known as sweet additions to recipes and warm beverages, but they may offer more than just great taste. Because honey and cinnamon have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, they may also be able to help people with arthritis.
Staying hydrated is vital when you live with arthritis. Hydration is key for flushing toxins out of your body, which can help fight inflammation, and well-hydrated cartilage reduces the rate of friction between bones, meaning you can move more easily.
Turmeric. A golden spice that's long been used to lend color and flavor to foods, turmeric also has been used in ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for a variety of conditions, including arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.
Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available.10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. It is also available as a topical gel, Voltaren, which is available over the counter.
Bananas and Plantains are high in magnesium and potassium that can increase bone density. Magnesium may also alleviate arthritis symptoms.
Unlike most fruits, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, a micronutrient with anti-inflammatory effects. Diets high in these compounds are linked to decreased risk of the joint damage seen in early OA. Studies also show eating avocados daily increases “good” HDL cholesterol and lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol.
Citrus fruits cause inflammation
Some people believe that they should avoid citrus fruits because the acidity is inflammatory.
Drinking your coffee black is going to be your best bet when it comes to fully enjoying its anti-inflammatory properties, as research has shown that diets higher in sugar can contribute to inflammation. If you're not a fan of black coffee, just try limiting your intake of added sugar and super sugary coffee creamers.