Arthritis is a chronic disorder with symptoms of
inflammation and pain in different joints. The most prevalent management is
through modification of lifestyle, in other words, through diet. Foods and
beverages may be the ones causing the inflammatory response, or perhaps some of
their constituents enhance flare-up risks in arthritis leading to deterioration
in symptoms. Indeed, these are foods that are of importance to avoid, for they
manage this condition and offer proper health in joints. Here are some of the
most critical foodstuffs and drinks that need to be avoided in cases of
arthritis:
Here are 10 Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Arthritis
1. Added Sugar Foods And Drinks:
High intake of sugar within the system promotes high
activity of inflammation. It is, therefore, very dangerous for people who have
arthritis to take excessive sugars. Food that is rich in sugar content, like
sweets, pastries, soda, and sweetened beverages, can increase the levels of
inflammatory cytokines that trigger inflammation and hence pains in the joints
of body parts. Thus, less sugar in the diet would translate to less
inflammation and a healthier body. Replace the sugar with a natural sweetener
like honey, or fruits, and with water or unsweetened beverages.
2. Processed Foods
Processed foods are loaded with trans-fatty acids and often
contain large quantities of preservatives and other additives that can be
pro-inflammatory. In general, fast food, frozen meals, and packaged snacks tend
to be very high in the wrong fats and low in nutrients. Since it raises the
level of trans-fatty acids, it is bad for both inflammation and health in
general. It may all start with knowledge of label reading and eating whole,
non-processed foods and can bring relief to inflammation and improvement in
joint health.
3. Red Meat and Processed Meats
The daily diet includes saturated fats and foods such as red
meat and processed meats- foods that comprise AGEs. AGEs are chemical compounds
that when taken in excess result in increased inflammation in the body and
thus, they are pro-inflammatory. One will thus be in a position to manage the
arthritis symptoms if one avoids red or processed meats such as sausages, hot
dogs, and bacon. Such foods must get replaced by lean sources of protein like
fish and poultry, and on the whole less pro-inflammatory plant-based proteins.
4. Dairy Products
These dairy products can actually enhance arthritic
inflammatory responses and joint pain in some people. This may be due to the
fact that dairy contains casein, a protein believed to irritate tissue around
the joints. If you think this might be a problem, then try cutting dairy out
for weeks at a time to see if that makes a difference. You can get all the
necessary nutrients from another source of milk, such as almond milk, soy milk,
or other plant-based milk that excludes the inflammatory substance.
5. Refined Carbs
These foods have a high glycemic index and will lead to high
amounts of blood sugar: Refined Carbs—white bread, white rice, and pastries.
High blood sugar will send spikes through body inflammation, resulting in
higher inflammation in the joints. Some of the healthier options are whole
grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, which definitely will
help in the stabilization of levels of blood sugar and reduce inflammation.
Note: More whole grains mean better health and may actually aid in the symptom
relief for arthritis.
6. Alcohol
Heavy alcohol consumption can raise the level of
inflammation, which might further exaggerate the intensity of arthritis.
Alcohol intake might further suppress or weaken arthritis medications. Reduced
intake or maintenance of avoidance of alcohol reduces risks of elevating the
chances of inflammation and sustains the health of the joint. In case one has
to take alcohol, then do so in moderate levels and follow up with red wine
since it contains massive content of antioxidants with potential
anti-inflammatory properties.
7. Foods Rich in Omega-6
Omega-6s are essential for growth and development. However,
too much omega-6 causes inflammation, which is then balanced by omega-3
consumption mainly from salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed. Right intake of healthy
fats and oils mainly from olive oil and avocado oil will sustain the
healthiness of joints and eliminate risks of arthritis.
8. Salt and High-Sodium Foods
High intake of salt causes water and blood pressure
retention in the body, which increases discomfort from arthritis. In this
category, include all processed and pre-packaged foods that are generally soak
in sodium. Limit your salt consumption and replace it with fresh and
not-processed food for the prevention of arthritis. Replace herbs and spices
instead of salt, not only makes flavor for your meal but also increases it
without causing inflammation.
9. Fried and Processed Snacks
Chips, fried chicken, French fries—the level of undesired
fats and trans-fats found in these fried and processed snacks is so huge. They
can be a cause for inflammation, weight gain, and further stress on the joints.
Shifting from fried foods and moving healthful snack options like fruits,
veggies, and nuts will help keep one in good health, hence at bay from the
symptoms of arthritis.
10. Artificial Additives and Preservatives
Processed foods, to a great extent, are made up of
artificial additives and preservative chemicals that may turn pro-inflammatory for some. They may also include certain ingredients like MSG and some
artificial food colorings that have been reported to evoke bad reactions and
raise the volatility of symptoms related to arthritis. One can avoid exposure
to probable additives that trouble joints by reading natural ingredient labels.
More Diet Tips to Control Arthritis
Eat anti-inflammatory food:
Consume foods that reduce inflammations. They include leafy
greens, berries, fatty fish, and nuts. All these foods help cut the
inflammations in the body and in extension reduce symptoms of the disease.
Drink Water:
Probably the most important thing is to drink enough water
throughout the day to keep oneself well-hydrated. Water helps in lubricating
the joints and washing out any possible source of irritation, hence minimizing
as much inflammation as possible. Also, cold sugar and caffeine should be
avoided in drinks since they tend to dehydrate the body.
Maintain a healthy weight:
The additional pressure on the joints, owing to increased
weight, only adds to problematic effects of arthritis. Eating a healthy,
balanced diet and being regularly active is a giant step toward a healthy
weight.
Food Sensitivity Management:
Some of them may be found to be hypersensitive to some food
stuffs that seem to worsen their attack of arthritis. In such a condition, the
food diaries may help in the identification of these trigger foods, which shall
emerge when certain changes in symptoms come after the use of such food items.
Consult a Healthcare Professional:
One should consult a dietician or any other healthcare
provider to obtain appropriate diet planning that best suits his or her needs, and
controls the symptoms of arthritis.
Conclusion
Dietary changes can really keep arthritis under control.
Consuming foods and beverages most likely to increase inflammation, coupled
with colossal amounts of the ones that help diminish it, cuts down on the pain
while improving the health of your joints. You should, however, ensure that you
consult with your healthcare provider before changing your existing diet, as
this might cause problems in the case of an underlying disease.
Please book an appointment with the best Rheumatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
