We eat food for fuel, but do we ever stop to think about the effects certain foods have on our health? There isn’t a “one size fits all diet” because some foods can worsen conditions, cause allergies, or increase pain in the body. When it comes to those with arthritis, there are foods that should be avoided to keep joints and bones healthy.
The body of someone with arthritis is in an inflammatory state. Many foods can cause inflammation and worsen symptoms of arthritis. That’s why it is important to pay attention to the foods that you put in your body. Here are 6 foods that you need to avoid if you have arthritis.
#1: Fried Foods
Fried foods can generally worsen the overall health of the body. The batter, oil, preparation methods, and even the food itself can trigger inflammation. If you do eat fast foods often, eliminate them from your diet to see if your arthritis pain lessens. When it comes to fast food, though, we do not give it a stamp of approval.
#2: Sugar or Added Sugars
There is always controversy when it comes to sugar. Let’s make this clear: natural sugars, which occur in fresh fruit or raw nut butters, are ok to consume. The refined or processed sugars (even artificial sweeteners) can trigger inflammatory responses. Since sugar has many names, look for words ending in “ose” on labels.
#3: Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential nutrients that the body needs for growth and development, but there needs to be a healthy balance. If you eat too many omega-6 fatty acids, this can trigger an inflammatory response in the body. Stay away from vegetable oil, store bought salad dressings, mayonnaise, fast food, pork products, or dairy and eggs.
#4: Monosodium Glutamate
This food additive should be avoided at all costs. It is commonly found in prepared Asian food, fast food, or prepared soups and can open chronic inflammation pathways, as well as affect liver health.
#5: Alcohol
Alcohol takes a toll on the liver, and can even lead to cirrhosis if consumed excessively. When the liver isn’t functioning properly, it can have an effect on other organs and even cause inflammation. Plus, a lot of alcoholic drinks can have added sugars, which should be avoided.
#6: Acidic Foods
A lot of acidic foods can contribute to chronic inflammation by upsetting the body’s pH level. Some of these foods include barley, rice, many meats, pastas, and dairy products. It is best to go for alkaline foods like green leafy vegetables, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, squash, cinnamon, chili powder, or citrus fruit. Alkaline foods are good for you because they restore the body’s pH level and help detox your system.
