UK charity Arthritis Action, there are thought to be 10 million people in the UK with some form of arthritis, with the condition characterised by chronic inflammation in the joints that leads to significant pain and stiffness.
One way to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis is to tackle that joint inflammation. This can be achieved through anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or even dietary changes.
A medical expert has now revealed what he calls the ‘world’s most anti-inflammatory food,’ and he claims it’s even ‘better than ibuprofen.’ Eric Berg is a social media sensation with 17 million subscribers on YouTube and over one million followers on TikTok who often shares health and diet advice on his page, specialising in intermittent fasting and healthy ketosis, reports the Daily Record.
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In a recent TikTok video, he shared his knowledge on what he describes as the ‘world‘s most anti-inflammatory food’. He explained: “The most anti-inflammatory food in the world is not turmeric, it’s not ginger, and it’s definitely not blueberries.
“Just one little teaspoon of this food can reduce joint inflammation better than ibuprofen. It has been used for thousands of years and it has outperformed turmeric and ginger in reducing joint inflammation by 60 per cent.”
Despite much discussion about their benefits, Berg has not crowned turmeric or ginger as the ultimate anti-inflammatory. Instead, he sings the praises of black cumin seed oil as the top pick for easing joint inflammation.
Black seed oil comes from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, often identified as black cumin or kalonji. While many of us might not feel as comfortable cooking with it as ginger or tumeric which are spice rack staples, it is readily stocked in health food stores with fans of natural remedies able to get a bottle for £16 at Holland and Barrett or opt for 1000 mg Black Seed Oil Cold Pressed Capsules at £13.99 on Amazon for those less keen on oils.
Berg said: “The unique compound in black seed oil is called thymoquinone, which has a direct anti-inflammatory effect comparable to over-the-counter pain medications.”
According to Medical News Today, health benefits coming from the thymoquinone in black seed oil include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial traits, with some saying the compound may aid in healing wounds and lowering blood pressure.
Elsewhere, a scientific study showcased in Science Direct in 2021 confirm thymoquinone’s prowess in tackling chronic inflammatory conditions, asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, bronchitis, headaches, eczema, fevers, dizziness, and influenza thanks to its trio of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic capabilities.
Aside from black seed oil, turmeric and ginger remain more readily available spices which can be incorporated into diet and help give a health boost. Healthline explains that ginger contains bioactive compounds such as gingerol that can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain associated with various conditions like muscle soreness, arthritis, and digestive issues.
The Mayo Clinic also explains that there are various studies looking at the benefits of turmeric for anti-inflammation. Several studies show turmeric to be just as effective as ibuprofen for reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain but more research is needed to confirm these effects.
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