For joint pain, aim for 2-3 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) daily, as it contains inflammation-fighting compounds like oleocanthal, similar to NSAIDs, but without the side effects; start with 1-2 tablespoons and incorporate it into anti-inflammatory meals, but be mindful of calories. Always choose EVOO for the most beneficial polyphenols, use it in cooking or as a drizzle, and consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Rub the olive oil onto your sore joints twice per day to ease pain. You can also ingest the two to three tablespoons of olive oil daily, but monitor your fat intake as this oil is high in calories and “good” fat. Peppermint and eucalyptus contain relaxing and pain-relieving properties that can alleviate your arthritis.
How much: Two to three tablespoons daily. Why: Olive oil is loaded with heart-healthy fats, as well as oleocanthal, which has properties similar to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). “Oleocanthal inhibits activity of COX enzymes, with a pharmacological action similar to ibuprofen,” says Ordovás.
First and foremost, Olive Oil is known for its ability to promote better digestion. By consuming it before sleeping, it can facilitate the process of breaking down food in your stomach, leading to improved digestion overnight.
Within 2–4 hours of consuming your first tablespoon of EVOO, your body's inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, begin to decrease. Oleocanthal, a compound in EVOO, acts similarly to ibuprofen but without the harmful side effects.
Starting your day with olive oil may provide numerous health benefits, from supporting digestion to promoting heart health. Incorporating a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil into your morning routine could help boost metabolism, improve skin health, and aid in weight management.
The beneficial effects of olive oil have been widely studied and could be due to its phytochemicals, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Lubricin is a chondroprotective glycoprotein and it serves as a critical boundary lubricant between opposing cartilage surfaces.
The major downside to olive oil is that while it contains “good fat,” it is still high in fat — and calories. One tablespoon contains about 120 calories. If you're drinking shots of olive oil, you can easily take in more calories and fat than you need. Moderation is key to healthy olive oil intake.
Usually, the small cup of olive oil is followed by a small glass of warm water with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Some people even suggest that a tablespoon or two of olive oil may be all you need to fully reap its benefits. The consumption of olive oil includes a healthier digestive process as well.
Metabolic health researcher Dr Bill Mullen from Glasgow University discovered that just 20ml (4 tsp) a day of raw – uncooked – olive oil can reduce biomarkers for heart disease within six weeks.
A study published Jan. 18, 2022, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the overall and cause-specific risks of death were lower in women and men consuming higher levels of olive oil as opposed to butter, margarine, mayonnaise, and dairy fat. It was reported Jan. 11, 2022, in USA Today.
Extra virgin olive oil, the least refined type, is pressed mechanically rather than processed with heat or chemicals that change its properties. It contains biologically active compounds – such as the polyphenols, oleocanthal, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and lignans – that have been linked to reduced joint damage in RA.
Chondroitin and glucosamine are two natural substances within your cartilage, which tends to decrease around your joints as you age. Supplements containing these components have been found to reduce pain caused by cartilage loss, with chondroitin improving function and glucosamine improving stiffness.
Ice packs can help lessen pain and inflammation, especially after physical activity. Always place a thin towel between an ice pack and your skin. Massage. Massage may improve pain and stiffness in the short term.
Here are seven simple ways to keep your joints lubricated as you get older.
Having olive oil first thing in the morning works well with your body's natural rhythms. On an empty stomach, it can kickstart digestion and improve how your body absorbs nutrients throughout the day. Here's why timing matters: Morning intake aligns with your body's peak metabolic activity.
😂 According to Benny, his friend Nino introduced him to this unique tradition, reportedly passed down from some Italian elders. They claimed that taking a shot of olive oil before drinking can help prevent hangovers and make it "impossible" to feel the aftereffects of a night out.
Olive oil, especially the extra virgin type, can be drunk directly and provides many health benefits. Starting from protecting the heart, improving digestion, to caring for skin and hair from within. As long as consumed wisely, olive oil can be part of your daily healthy routine.
People are drinking or taking a "shot" of olive oil before bed for benefits like improved digestion, reduced inflammation, better sleep quality, and to help with weight management, leveraging its healthy fats, polyphenols, and ability to support hormone production like melatonin. This practice, common in Mediterranean traditions, can promote fullness, potentially curb nighttime cravings, and provide anti-inflammatory relief for better rest.
How to take it? In order to enjoy its many benefits, it is recommended that you drink a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil as soon as you wake up on an empty stomach, or at least half an hour before having breakfast.
Consuming olive oil may lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Fresh olive oil might have more antioxidant benefits than heated olive oil. Olive oil shots can cause digestive discomfort and weight gain if consumed excessively.
Omega-3 fatty acids
This healthy fat is found in foods such as fish, nuts and in dietary supplements such as fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and stiffness. Studies show that those who ate omega-3 rich foods or took a fish oil supplement had a reduction in joint pain.
To manage osteoarthritis, avoid foods that increase inflammation and weight, such as saturated and trans fats (fried foods, processed meats, full-fat dairy, pastries), added sugars (soda, sweets, refined carbs like white bread), and excessive sodium, as these can worsen joint pain and damage. Also limit alcohol, as it can interfere with medications and inflammation, and consider limiting nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers) if they trigger your symptoms.
Natural Relief for Arthritis Pain