In addition to doctor-prescribed medications and therapies, many arthritis patients turn to food to alleviate the severity of joint pain and inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and even fibromyalgia and gout. As medical experts continue to study the positive effects on certain foods and their natural pain-relieving abilities, many arthritis sufferers swear by the following foods to relieve arthritis symptoms and reduce the severity of arthritic flare ups:

1. Turmeric
This pungent, bold yellow spice is among the most widely studied natural remedy for arthritis. According to a study published by the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory benefits due to high levels of curcumin, a plant compound found within. In fact, turmeric has been used as a natural remedy for joint pain in Indian culture and cuisine for centuries.

2. Tart cherries
While studies are still ongoing, many arthritis and gout sufferers drink tart cherry juice daily for its pain-relieving prowess. In fact, tart cherries contain anthocyanin, a plant based ingredient that eases joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation according to research from the journal, Osteoarthritis and Cartilage.

3. Garlic
Researchers from Dallas’ University of Texas Southwestern Medical School tout garlic, as well as leeks and onions, as a joint and bone ally. Onions, leeks, and garlic all belong to the allium family, which means they contain high amounts of a plant compound known as diallyl disulfide, which may reduce specific enzymes that destroy cartilage in arthritic patients.

4. Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, trout and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation. Try adding fish to your diet a couple of times a week. If you’re not a big fan of fish, ask your doctor about taking an omega-3 supplement.

5. Cruciferous veggies
By cruciferous veggies I’m referring to vegetables from the cruciferous family, namely cabbage, Brussel sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli, which not only make a great stir fry, but are also loaded with sulforaphane, a natural plant compound known for reducing the joint damage associated with certain types of arthritis (i.e., osteoarthritis).