Millions of Americans currently suffer from arthritis, according to the consumer advocacy group, Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). In fact, several different types of arthritis exist, but PCRM states that over 20 million Americans suffer from one specific type called osteoarthritis. Arthritis causes pain and stiffness in many of the joints. Though no cure for arthritis exists, many people choose to take prescription pain and anti-inflammatory medications. In addition to these methods, changing the diet and avoiding particular foods can also help improve arthritic symptoms.
Eggs
According to the magazine Arthritis Today, people with arthritis generally have higher levels of antibodies against eggs, which means that an allergic correlation between eggs and arthritis sufferers may exist. In fact, Arthritis Today states that many arthritis patients may prove so mildly allergic to eggs that after eating them continually over time, their immune system function lowers and their arthritic symptoms like pain and inflammation worsen. Although more research needs to be done on this topic, Arthritis Today recommends that people with arthritis choose foods like fruits, vegetables and fish instead of eating eggs.
Beef
Diets high in total fat and saturated fat can also worsen pain in people who have arthritis. The Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine states that beef, which is high in saturated fat, remains one of the foods that people with arthritis should avoid. They also state that vegan diets, which include no meat or dairy, can decrease pain and other arthritic symptoms. Instead of eating meats like beef, PCRM recommends foods like fish, whole grains and beans.
Milk
Dairy foods like milk can worsen pain and joint inflammation in people with arthritis, according to the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine. They state that the problem results from milk protein, so even switching to lower fat milk usually doesn't help. Arthritis Today also states that people with arthritis often prove allergic to milk, which worsens their body's reaction to drinking milk. Soy milk and rice milk provide feasible alternatives to arthritic patients who want to drink milk.
Eggplant
Eggplant may seem healthy and harmless but the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine explains that nightshade plants such as eggplants and tomatoes, increase pain levels in many people who have arthritis, and therefore should be avoided in favor of other vegetables like spinach and broccoli. PCRM states that once eggplants are removed from the diet, many arthritic patients start to feel much better.
