7 anti-inflammation foods for arthritics

 Medication is often used to reduce inflammation in arthritics, but certain foods can also help. Start adding these seven foods today to reap their anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Salmon has been coined the brain-boosting fish and with good reason. This fish is swimming with omega-3 fatty acids, a type of unsaturated fat that helps improve memory.
• It also has anti-inflammatory properties that bring relief to arthritis sufferers.

• Brown rice is a fibre-packed grain brimming with B-vitamins, and it helps to facilitate digestion and regulate blood sugar. The fibre in brown rice also helps to reduce inflammatory markers in those with arthritis.
• Eating brown rice regularly may prevent inflammation if foods that agitate inflammation are avoided.

• Kale is the new super green. In addition to a host of health benefits, it's also been shown to protect the joints from inflammation. Kale is rich in vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin that helps to fight the cytokines causing the inflammation.

• Almonds contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which improve both heart and brain health. The type of omega-3 it contains is called alpha-linolenic acid. This has been shown to reduce inflammation in both muscles and joints.
• If you're not too fond of the crunch, try substituting peanut butter with smooth almond-nut butter.

• Soy is one of the most versatile foods on the planet. It can be consumed as both a food or drink and flavoured to taste like anything.
• Soy has been known to lower CRP levels (C-reactive protein) to fight inflammation. The best way to add soy to your diet is to use it in place of milk.

• Low-fat yogurt, good for more than just healthy bones, is effective for fighting inflammation. Calcium fights inflammation while building bones and promoting overall good health. Just don't eat too much, or you may feel bloated.
• Choose a low-fat yogurt with active cultures for the most benefit.

• Tomatoes are bursting with flavour and vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that doubles up as an antioxidant to fight cell oxidation.
• In people with arthritis, it has been shown to reduce inflammation due to its lycopene (a powerful antioxidant) content.