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Bone & Joint HealthNutritionPain Management

5 anti-inflammatory foods for knee osteoarthritis

Loading up on antioxidant-rich foods may help lower inflammation and reduce pain levels in the process.

Jan 18, 2026
Home page>Rheumatology>Knee Osteoarthritis>5 anti-inflammatory foods for knee osteoarthritis
Written byJameson Kowalczyk
Medically reviewedbyMark Arredondo, MDin December 2023
Slide 1
Put fatty fish on the menu
Load up on dark leafy greens
Scoop up berries and cherries
Indulge in avocado
Drizzle on the olive oil
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Slide 1

By Elizabeth Millard

A healthy diet is a key component of any treatment plan for knee osteoarthritis because not-so-great foods (those high in sugar, refined carbs, and saturated and trans fats) may increase inflammation in your body, which could lead to more joint pain.

Foods that are high in antioxidants, on the other hand, have the opposite effect. They fight inflammation, not only in your joints but throughout your entire system. That may help relieve knee pain, and also help prevent conditions related to inflammation, such as cardiovascular disease.

Here are some top anti-inflammatory foods to work into your weekly meal plans.

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