Three Food Alternatives To Drugs

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Do you have joint pain? Before you head to the medicine cabinet for a quick fix, think of some natural dietary approaches that can help.
Here are a few that might surprise you: sardines are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients. When you eat foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, your body converts them into different types of compounds including resolvins, which halt inflammation.

When cooking consider extra virgin olive oil which contains a compound called oleocanthal, which blocks your body's production of enzymes that spur inflammation. It works in the same way as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Finally, the old standby, broccoli which contains a powerful compound called sulforaphane, which stops inflammation in its tracks and blocks enzymes that can destroy your joints.

Broccoli is also packed with vitamin k, which may slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Eat it.