Take the RealAge Test or sign in to find out how old you really are.
 

RealAge Tip

Pumpkin Joints

Rating: 4 out of 5
That orange-hued pumpkin on your patio may be the new symbol of arthritis prevention.

Beta-cryptoxanthin is a carotenoid found in yellow-, orange-, and red-hued produce, such as pumpkins and red peppers. Studies show this caroteniod could help reduce the risk of inflammatory polyarthritis by up to 40 percent. Get your fill from orange juice, carrots, and watermelon as well.

Polyarthritis is a condition that may lead to rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue, aches, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and stiff, painful joints. Severe rheumatoid arthritis may result in significant tissue destruction and disability. Diagnosing and treating the disease early may help slow disease progression and minimize serious health consequences. Eating a diet high in antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and protective, healthy fats from walnuts, fish, and flaxseeds may help combat inflammation. Limit red meat in your diet to no more than one serving per week as well. Red meat may aggravate inflammation.

RealAge Benefit: Getting the right amount of antioxidants through diet or supplements can make your RealAge 6 years younger.
References Published on 10/19/2005.
Dietary beta-cryptoxanthin and inflammatory polyarthritis: results from a population-based prospective study. Pattison, D. J., Symmons, D. P., Lunt, M., Welch, A., Bingham, S. A., Day, N. E., Silman, A. J., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2005 Aug;82(2):451-455.

Click stars to rate.

Rate This Tip

Want more? Search all our tips by topic or interest.

Subscribe Icon Subscribe to receive RealAge Tips by e-mail.   SUBSCRIBE

    Add RealAge Tip of the Day to your site.

WATCH VIDEOS  RealAge Video  »
RealAge YOU And Your Body With Dr. Oz Bring Out the Best in Your Skin VideoRealAge YOU And Your Body With Dr. Oz Bring Out the Best in Your Skin Video
The YOU Docs explain how your skin works and how to protect and keep it beautiful.

FIND RECIPES »

asparagus
In Season: Asparagus.
High in folate. Big in taste.
 

GET ANSWERS »

YOU Docs Daily
Eating to Win