Arthritis is a common cause of stiffness and pain in joints, which can make it challenging to carry out everyday activities, such as climbing stairs or walking for long periods. There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage in your joints breaks down over time and can no longer cushion your bones from impact and pressure. 

While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, steps can be taken to improve your condition. Bone supplements, such as Evenity bone strengthening treatment, can assist with overall joint health and mobility. Additionally, your diet, including several snack foods, can help ease arthritis symptoms:

1. Baked kale chips

Green vegetables, such as spinach, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and kale, are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to reduce inflammation, both of which can improve osteoarthritis symptoms. Baked kale chips serve the double purpose of adding more kale to your diet and replacing potato chips, which, along with other refined carbohydrates, can actually worsen your osteoarthritis symptoms. In short, baked kale chips resemble potato chips but are significantly healthier, making them a fantastic snack!  

2. Canned salmon and crackers

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. However, cooking up an entire fish is a bit intense for just a snack. Luckily, canned salmon with some crackers is an accessible snack with just as much anti-inflammatory goodness to help ease your joint pain. Plus, if you’re worried about mercury levels, you can be reassured that the level of mercury found in canned salmon is very minimal and does not pose a health risk. 

3. Edamame

If you can’t, or just don’t, eat fish, soy is a great alternative source of omega-3 fatty acids and is low-fat and high in protein and fiber, making it an incredibly healthy snack overall. Edamame, or soybeans, are a great, soy-rich snack that can be found at most grocery stores. They can be served raw or roasted, but are a delicious, crunchy, healthy snack either way.  

4. Low-fat string cheese

Many studies have found that calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health, with vitamin D helping the body to absorb calcium and to grow and repair bones. As such, consuming enough calcium and vitamin D is essential for easing osteoarthritis symptoms and slowing its progression. Cheese is a great source of these vital nutrients, and string cheese is a beloved snack that is easy to keep in your bag for when you’re feeling peckish. Plus, choosing low-fat string cheese keeps the snack more healthy overall. 

5. Fruit salad

Fruit salad is a great snack under any circumstances — it tastes delicious and contains vitamins, antioxidants, water, and fiber. Any fruits will be beneficial to your health, but certain fruits are particularly good to include in an anti-osteoarthritis fruit salad. Tart cherries get their dark color from anthocyanin, a flavonoid with significant anti-inflammatory properties. Berries, like strawberries and raspberries, also contain anthocyanin, and are high in vitamin C. Watermelon and grapes can also reduce inflammation and are both packed with antioxidants. 

6. Veggie sticks and hummus

Hummus is a dip made from olive oil, chickpeas, and tahini (sesame paste), all of which have been shown to reduce inflammation. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants. Hummus makes a great healthy snack for those with osteoarthritis, especially combined with veggies like broccoli, which is high in vitamin K and assists with cartilage and bone mineralization, as well as cauliflower, carrots, peas, and red bell peppers. 

  7. Shelled nut and seed mixes

Nuts and seeds are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, or good fats, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Additionally, nuts and seeds are a great source of protein. Try a handful of walnuts or almonds, or even mix them with some dried berries to make trail mix, the next time you need a snack.