17 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Keep You Flexible When It's Freezing
3. Tart Cherries: Cold-Weather Relief in a Cup
Tart cherries are rich in anthocyanins, the pigments that give them a deep red color and that research associates with reduced inflammation and less muscle soreness. People with arthritis often report benefit from tart cherry consumption, and frozen tart cherries hold much of their nutritional value—making them perfect for winter use (VeryWellHealth). Warm them into compotes for yogurt or spoon them into oatmeal to add natural sweetness and anti-inflammatory compounds. You can also simmer tart cherry sauce to glaze roasted root vegetables or to stir into warm grain bowls. The tart flavor pairs well with warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric, which can increase the feeling of comfort on a cold day and complement the cherries’ benefits. While individual responses vary, incorporating tart cherries a few times a week is an easy, science-aligned step to support joint comfort during freezing weather (ZOE; VeryWellHealth).
4. Leafy Greens (Kale, Spinach): Winter Greens for Joint Support
Leafy greens such as kale and spinach deliver antioxidants, vitamin K, and magnesium—nutrients that support cellular health and normal inflammatory responses. These greens are easy to adapt into warming winter meals: toss them into soups near the end of cooking, wilt them with garlic and olive oil, or blend them into savory porridges. Frozen chopped greens are a convenient winter staple that preserves much of the nutritional value of fresh leaves, so you can keep them on hand for quick dinners. Vitamin K, found in abundance in many dark greens, also plays a role in bone health and the body’s repair processes. For older adults who might face limited prep time, a simple sauté of garlic, olive oil, and greens can be a daily habit that adds color and anti-inflammatory nutrients to meals without adding complexity. Pair greens with a source of healthy fat—like extra virgin olive oil—to help absorb fat-soluble vitamins and to increase meal satisfaction (VeryWellHealth).
