Short Answer: Apples are good for arthritis. Because they have quercetin and other antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints.
Arthritis is a condition that affects your joints, which are places in your body where two bones meet.
In arthritis, your body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule, a tough membrane that encloses all the joint parts.
This causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints.
This can lead to various health problems, such as joint damage, widespread inflammation, and cardiovascular damage.
One of the key factors in managing arthritis is diet.
What you consume can affect your inflammation levels, which can impact your arthritis symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage arthritis, you should consume anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish, and avoid pro-inflammatory foods like red meat, processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.
Now, apples are round, edible fruits that grow on the apple tree.
They are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants.
People usually eat them raw, cooked, or juiced.
Apples are good for arthritis because they contain quercetin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quercetin can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, which are the main causes of arthritis.
One medium-sized apple (182 grams) can give you 4.37 grams of fiber (16% of your daily needs), 8.37 milligrams of vitamin C (9% of your daily needs), and 136 milligrams of quercetin (no established daily value).
Quercetin can positively affect arthritis by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, and by scavenging free radicals that damage the joint tissues.
Furthermore, apples are a fruit and fruits are good for arthritis.
Because, fruits are generally low in calories, fat, and sodium, and high in water, vitamins, and phytochemicals, which can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation.
You can eat one to two apples per day safely.
More than that can cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, due to the high fiber content.
Also, you shouldn’t eat apples if you have diabetes or high blood sugar, to prevent spikes in your blood glucose levels.
Because, apples are high in simple sugars, such as fructose, sucrose, and glucose, which can raise your blood sugar quickly.
You can buy fresh apples in your local market or can order them from online.
Always choose apples that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises or cuts.
Because, these are signs of freshness and quality.
You can store them in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to two months.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing arthritis effectively.
I always recommend my arthritis patients to follow an arthritis-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.