Many people think of arthritis as a disease that only older adults have, but this ailment also affects children, and younger adults. Rheumatoid arthritis (or RA) is a chronic, progressive disease that often causes irreversible joint damage. It occurs when the immune system attacks the joints by mistake. The symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness, and loss of some physical functions in the hands, feet, wrists, shoulders, or knees. It can result from predisposition, genetics, or environmental influences.

Certain foods and snacks can help combat the inflammation of arthritis, easing the pain and swelling:

1. Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, trout, and mackerel, are rich in nutrients that help inflammation in the body. They contain omega 3 acids, and are potent anti-inflammatory foods. Served three times a week can greatly help ease arthritis swelling and pain. The omega 3 found in fatty fish is known to decrease the intensity of joint pain, and stiffness often felt in the morning.

2. Garlic
Garlic is a spicy, pungent flavoring used in many food recipes, and it contains anti inflammatory compounds that have been proven to decrease some of the symptoms of arthritis. Garlic can be used in favorite snacks to increase the flavor while helping the pain of arthritis.

3. Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the healthiest foods that people eat today. It is nutrient rich, and can be associated with the reduction of inflammation. This food can be eaten in many ways, cooked, raw, in soups, and salads. For snacking, or as part of the main meal, broccoli can provide many of the vitamins needed to help systems in the body.

4. Walnuts
Walnuts are a favorite snack that is loaded with compounds that can be associated with the reduction of inflammation of joint disease. They are especially rich in the omega 3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation of arthritis.

5. Berries
Dark berries are always fun to eat, and good for the body. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and they have a unique ability to help reduce inflammation. They boost many health benefits because they are rich in quercetin and rutin which are plant compounds. An arthritis diet may consist of foods that are naturally good, and contain many nutritional supplements that people are not aware of.

6. Spinach
This leafy green vegetable is filled with nutrients and compounds that that may help decrease much of the inflammation caused by arthritis. It contains antioxidants and plant compounds that can help relieve inflammation as well as fight disease.

7. Other RA friendly snacks
Other snack food like grapes are enjoyed by nearly everyone. They are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and they possess properties that are anti inflammatory. Many of the best tasting foods and snacks have much of what the body needs to help fight the inflammation caused by arthritis. Avoiding the obvious foods like fats, too much red meat, trans fat, and the high calorie creams and sauces can help keep inflammation of the joints at a reduced level. Eating healthier is great for any health issue.