Arthritis occurs when a joint develops inflammation and results in subsequent pain. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine explains that food may contribute to arthritis symptoms such as recurring pain, joint inflammation, stiffness, warmth and swelling. Common foods known to worsen arthritis symptoms include animal proteins, dairy products, nightshade plants, sugar, salt and alcohol. According to Arthritis Today, avoiding these foods helps to lessen arthritis associated symptoms.
Animal Proteins
Animal proteins, including turkey, chicken, pork and beef, are high in fiber and saturated fats. Animal proteins creates acidic condition inside the human body. As a result, uric acid accumulates in the joints, causing inflammation and pain. Cartilage in the joints may start to dissolve if the blood contains excessive amounts of acid from eating animal proteins. Red meat contains the highest amount of purines that contributes to uric acid and consumption should be lessened or eliminated to arthritic pain and inflammation, states the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
Sugar and Salt
Eating excessive amounts of sugar causes flare-ups and pain in many arthritis patients. The Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine recommends avoiding processed foods, which often contains sugars, cereals, candies, cakes and cookies. Salt also triggers arthritis inflammation and swelling, reports Arthritis Today. To lessen symptoms, avoid using salt while cooking and at the dinner table.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, milk and butter contribute to arthritis pain and inflammation in many people. According to the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine, this occurs because of the dairy protein instead of the animal fat. As a result, low-fat milk carries the same problem as whole milk. Many arthritis patients develop allergic reactions to certain dairy products that trigger arthritis symptoms. If you suspect dairy products cause arthritis flare-ups, consult a physician or dietitian to determine safe alternatives.
Alcohol and Caffeine
Caffeine and alcohol deplete the body of vital mineral and increase acidity, which can lead to inflammation and deterioration. Alcohol depletes potassium in the body while caffeine depletes calcium and other minerals, notes the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine. Potassium and calcium are important to maintaining bone health and function. If you are experiencing arthritis symptoms while consuming alcohol or caffeine, limit or restrict all products that contain these liquids as well as tea, coffee, chocolate, energy drinks and soda.
Nightshade Plants
Common nightshade plants that trigger arthritic pain include tomatoes, white potatoes, peppers and tomatoes. According to Arthritis Today, these foods contain solanine, a chemical substance that interrupts enzyme functions in the muscles, which causes subsequent discomfort and pain in the surrounding joints. If you find that eating these vegetables cause arthritis flare-ups, visit a physician to discuss a suitable diet plan.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Arthritis
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health: Arthritis and Nutrition
- Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine: Foods and Arthritis
- Arthritis Today: Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: RA and Food Allergies
- Joy Bauer, R.D., M.S., C.D.N: Fight arthritis with these foods, Oct 2007
