Over 54 million adults in the United States are living with arthritis. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Living with arthritis can make everyday tasks difficult. In fact, it is the leading cause of work disability. So, how can individuals with arthritis live a more comfortable life? A simple change in diet could have a large impact.
What foods should I avoid if I have arthritis?
Everyone’s case is unique and there is no one solution for foods to avoid, however, there is a general guideline to follow. By avoiding, or limiting, the consumption of the following food groups, you can be one step closer to having a more comfortable life:
- Sugars – Processed sugars can prompt the release of cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that help regulate certain bodily functions such as immunity, inflammation, repair and hematopoiesis or the formation of blood cells.
- Saturated Fats – These fats can cause several health issues. Through the inflammation of fat tissue, one can run the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other conditions.
- Refined Carbohydrates – Foods such as white bread, white rice, and potato chips fuel oxidants that cause inflammation in the body.
What foods should I eat if I have arthritis?
Having the right balance of foods can positively impact your arthritis as well as improve your overall health. By eating healthier, one has the opportunity to strengthen their bones, muscles, and joints and help the body fight inflammation and disease. Here are foods that can help one lower inflammation, improve their overall health, and help fight arthritis.
- Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Mackerels, and Herring)
- Soybean
- Oils (Extra-Virgin, Avocado, Safflower, Walnut)
- Cherries
- Dairy (Low-fat dairy products: milk, yogurt, and cheese)
- Broccoli
- Green Tea
- Citrus Fruits (Oranges, grapefruit, and limes)
- Whole Grains (Oatmeal, brown rice, whole-grain cereals)
- Beans (red, kidney, and pinto)
- Garlic
- Nuts (Walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios, and almonds)
Small steps can have a large impact. By shifting the foods you consume, you can reduce your arthritis and improve your overall health. You have the ability to make the change, will you?
Naturally, making dietary changes is not easy. This is why Kymera Independent Physicians provide not only medical help for patients with arthritis, but also guidance in lifestyle changes. Be sure to ask your Kymera Rheumatologist how to better control symptoms in your case. He or she can help you better understand how to cope with the inflammation and pain common to your particular disease or condition.
Resources:
CDC – Arthritis Facts
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/arthritis.htm
5 Top Arthritis Questions Patients Ask a Rheumatologist
12 Best Foods For Arthritis
Cytokines
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/cytokines
