Arthritis? Joint Problems? You may benefit from avoiding these foods

There is strong a correlation between arthritis and diet. Certain foods have a tendency to cause inflammation or an immune response in some people. This is a big contributor to joint pain or worsening pain and suffering associated with arthritis. Avoiding the most common offending foods can really help you manage these symptoms. Below is a list of foods to consider removing from your diet if you suffer from joint pain or arthritis.

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  1. FRIED FOODS

 

Most fried foods are cooked in oils that are high omega-6 fatty acids (such as vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil). These types of oils oxidize very easily and become rancid at high temperatures. This in turn, causes pain and inflammation. Fry or roast foods in oil only occasionally. Coconut oil, ghee and butter are much healthier options.

 

  1. GLUTEN CONTAINING FOODS

 

Intolerances to the protein gluten are a common contributor to inflammation. Gluten is found in many grains such as wheat, oats, rye, and barley. As an alternative, try soaking or sprouting these grains prior to eating as this helps break down the gluten proteins and aid digestion. You can also choose non gluten containing grains such as rice, buckwheat, quinoa, millet, or amaranth.

 

  1. NIGHTSHADE VEGETABLES

 

The family of nightshades include tomatoes, potatoes (not sweet potatoes though), peppers, and eggplant. These all a contain a poisonous alkaloid called solanine which may contribute to the pain and inflammation of arthritis and joint pain.

 

  1. SUGAR

 

Sugar has a very inflammatory effect on the body. It has a negative effect on our immune system which defends us infections and degenerative diseases. It’s very prevalent in many processed foods, breads, pastas, cakes, cookies, and beverages. Avoid these and instead choose foods which naturally occurring sugars such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

 

  1. DAIRY

 

Dairy is known to be one of the most prominent foods contributing to joint pain and arthritis.

Proteins in dairy such as casein or sugars like lactose are difficult to digest for many people. This can cause the undigested foods to leak into the bloodstream and trigger pain that leads to arthritis.  Fermented dairy products such as yogurt are kefir as easier to digest but you may still like to avoid them, especially if they also contain sugar.

 

  1. ALCOHOL

 

Alcohol and joint pain are related. Alcohol is a diuretic which leads to dehydration.

When our fascia, tissues and ligaments dry out, they are no longer able to provide the soft cushioning between bones and joints. If you drink alcohol, do it only occasionally and drink water to reduce the adverse effects. A general rule of thumb is to drink a glass for water for every glass of alcohol.