Researchers discovered that between 30-40% reported significant improvements after eliminating certain foods from the diet. The same applies to people who have osteoarthritis of their hips and knees. With a few exceptions, the ideal diet is similar for everyone.
Avoid or eat less of these foods:
Weight is a key factor in the relationship between arthritis and diet.
– Reduce the amount of saturated fats in foods like red meat, butter, and cheese.
– Trans fats are found in many commercially prepared baked goods and fried food.
– Reduce salt intake. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest less than one teaspoon of salt a day, most Americans consume twice as much. Use less mustard, ketchup, and soy sauce. When possible, avoid so-called “fast food” as they are usually high in sodium.
– Use alternative sweeteners to reduce sugar intake. Beware of sodas. Even if the sweetener is calorie-free, it can still be high in sodium.
– Alcohol consumption should be moderate. Regularly drinking alcohol can help reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. However, you should limit your intake to less than one glass of wine or beer per day. Alcohol can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding in those with arthritis.
Add these to your diet:
– Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
– According to new research, broccoli contains a compound that helps slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
– Antioxidants in blueberries can help protect against inflammation of the joints.
– Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain that reduces inflammation.
– Bananas are abundant in magnesium, which helps strengthen bones.
– Dark green vegetables such as spinach or kale contain iron, which helps fight anemia caused by anti-inflammatory drugs.
– Omega 3 polyunsaturated fats are found in many foods. Omega 3 is particularly beneficial to those with rheumatoid arthritis. Oily fish such as salmon and fresh tuna are also good sources of Omega 3. Walnuts also contain Omega 3.
– Omega 6 is also present in Omega 3 foods. Omega 6 is inflammatory, so don’t consume too much.
– Vitamin E can help reduce knee arthritis. Lobster is a great source of Vitamin E.
– Green Tea is also beneficial. It has elements that help slow down cartilage breakdown and wear. Vitamin C-rich orange juice is a great beverage to drink because Vitamin C deficiency can cause cartilage breakdown.
A medical professional wrote this article at Florida Medical Pain Management. As the leading Florida pain center, we are proud to offer comprehensive pain management services to a diverse group of patients. Patients at Florida Medical Pain Management can get help managing hip, knee, leg, and neck pain. The practice also offers comprehensive arthritis management, along with treatments for auto accidents, sports, and work injuries.
