Arthritis and nutrition

Arthritis and nutrition

Arthritis affects nearly one in five people in the United States. Arthritis is the broad term for hundreds of diseases involving the joints. The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. They each damage the joints in different ways. The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis can include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and reduced range of motion depending on the type. Most people don't realize that choosing healthy foods can significantly improve how they feel.

Many people enjoy food so much that they may not realize that what they are putting into their system can cause inflammation in their body. Arthritis is an inflammatory disease, so people with arthritis should focus on finding the anti-inflammatory foods they like. Daily exercise and losing weight (if you are overweight) help reduce the stress on the joints. It will also help in reducing inflammation levels in the body. Nutrition is key! It's always a good idea to discuss a new diet with a professional.

You can combat arthritis with foods that help reduce some aspects of inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, rainbow trout, Pacific oysters, flaxseeds and walnuts), extra virgin olive oil (use in cooking), antioxidants (peppers, oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, pineapple, lemons, broccoli, cantaloupe, mangoes), tuna, crab, tilapia, whole wheat pasta, lean beef, cod, shrimp, turkey, sweet potato, Carrots, pumpkin, apricots, spinach, onions, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, elderberries, and apples) and spices (ginger and turmeric) are among some that are known to help.

Inflammation irritates arthritic Joints, causing the tissue to swell and become inflamed. Eating anti-inflammatory foods can reduce swelling, but it's also important to know which foods can trigger painful inflammation. Stay away from; fried foods, sodas, refined carbohydrates, lard, processed meats, refined oils, salts, sugar, dairy products, simple carbohydrates, processed foods, saturated fat, trans fats, alcohol, tobacco, white rice, white flour, white bread, pasta, pastries, etc.

Maintaining a healthy diet can be done by eliminating or reducing inflammatory foods. First, read ingredient labels and look for the stated levels of saturated and trans fats. Compare different brands of products to see which ones are lower in unhealthy fats and sugars. Switch to natural cooking oils like olive or avocado oil. Avoid fried foods or foods cooked at high temperatures. When purchasing packaged foods, choose low-fat and fat-free options. Add more omega-3 fatty acids and reduce omega-6 fatty acids. Finally, eat as close to nature as possible by consuming less packaged and processed foods.

If you have arthritis, it's important to find the foods that make you feel better. These food suggestions are guidelines and not one size fits all. Foods that cause joint pain in one person may not cause the same joint pain in the next person. Paying attention to what you consume can drastically change how you feel. Stay away from the foods that cause you inflammation and find the anti-inflammatory foods you like! And don't forget to exercise!

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider if you have any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Inspired by Addison Jones