Dark green leafy vegetables
You might be surprised, but your mom was right when she told you to eat broccoli. Broccoli, cauliflower and cruciferous vegetables have been shown to protect against the development of arthritis and joint pain. These also contain antioxidants like carotenoids, which fight free radicals in the body and prevent damage to our cells and tissues.
Not only do free radicals damage our cells, but they also have been linked to rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation. Green leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, kale, Swiss chard and bok choy are packed with antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which protect the cells from free radical damage. These foods are also high in bone-preserving calcium.