Discover the Top 10 Foods and Beverages that May Worsen Arthritis Symptoms and Risk Factors
Arthritis is a prevalent health condition that leads to chronic inflammation in the joints, causing pain and damage to bones, joints, and other body parts. With over 100 different types of arthritis, Osteoarthritis is the most common non-inflammatory type, while Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, and gout are types of inflammatory arthritis that are considered autoimmune diseases. In order to alleviate symptoms and decrease risk factors, people with arthritis should avoid certain foods and beverages, including:
Added sugars:
Sugar intake should be limited, particularly for those with arthritis. Added sugars are present in various foods, including candy, soda, and ice cream, and have been found to worsen RA symptoms. Sugary beverages like soda can significantly increase the risk of arthritis.
Processed and red meats:
High levels of inflammatory markers like interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine have been associated with diets heavy in processed and red meats. These markers can increase arthritis symptoms, and red meat commonly worsens RA symptoms. High red meat intake can also be a risk factor for inflammatory arthritis. Plant-based diets that exclude red meat have been shown to improve arthritis symptoms.
Gluten-containing foods:
Some research links gluten to increased inflammation, suggesting that going gluten-free may ease arthritis symptoms. Those with celiac disease are at greater risk of developing RA, and those with autoimmune diseases like RA have a significantly higher prevalence of celiac disease than the general population. A gluten-free, vegan diet significantly reduced disease activity and improved inflammation.
Highly processed foods:
Ultra-processed foods like fast food, breakfast cereal, and baked goods contain potentially inflammatory ingredients, which may worsen arthritis symptoms. Western diets rich in heavily processed foods may increase the risk of RA by contributing to inflammation and obesity.
Alcohol:
Alcohol may worsen arthritis symptoms, and those with inflammatory arthritis should restrict or avoid it. Alcohol intake has been linked to increased spinal structural damage in those with axial spondyloarthritis and may increase the frequency and severity of gout attacks. Chronic alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of osteoarthritis.
Certain vegetable oils:
Diets high in omega-6 fats and low in omega-3 fats may worsen symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Reducing the intake of foods high in omega-6 fats, such as vegetable oils, while increasing the intake of omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish may improve arthritis symptoms.
Foods high in salt:
People with arthritis should consider cutting back on salt, found in foods like canned soup, pizza, and processed meats. A high-salt diet has been found to increase arthritis severity in mice, and high sodium intake may be a risk factor for autoimmune diseases like inflammatory arthritis.
Foods high in AGEs:
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed through reactions between sugars and proteins or fats. High protein, high-fat animal foods that are fried, roasted, grilled, and broiled have higher levels of AGEs. AGEs can worsen arthritis symptoms by contributing to inflammation.
Dairy products:
A high intake of dairy products has been associated with increased inflammation in people with arthritis, particularly those with RA. Low-fat dairy products may be a better option.
Nightshade vegetables:
Some people with arthritis may be sensitive to nightshade vegetables, including eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes. Eliminating nightshades from the diet may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
Furthermore, fried foods and refined carbohydrates should also be avoided by people with arthritis. Fried foods contain trans fats, which can increase inflammation in the body, while refined carbohydrates found in white bread can increase the risk of RA.
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