Arthritis refers to a number of chronic conditions that cause pain and inflammation in the joints. Though researchers continue to investigate the correlation between arthritis and diet, little evidence supports diets that claim to relieve arthritis, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. That said, a diet that supports weight management and wellness can help prevent inflammation caused by excessive body weight and reduce your risk for additional health problems. For best results, seek specified guidance from a qualified professional.
Saturated Fat
Consuming a diet rich in saturated fat increases your risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Eating saturated fat sources also leaves less room in your diet for healthy omega-3 fats, which may help reduce arthritis symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Foods high in saturated fat include fatty red meat, organ meats, sausage, bacon, poultry fat, fried chicken, high-fat cheeses, whole milk, heavy cream, butter, coconut oil, creamy salad dressing and corn chips. Frying healthy foods, such as lean poultry or fish, increases the saturated fat content of your meal.
Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and candy, contain relatively few nutrients and less fiber than complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains. Nutrient deficiencies are common among people with rheumatoid arthritis, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Replacing refined carbohydrates with whole grain equivalents may help prevent such deficiencies from occurring. Refined carbohydrates are also associated with weight gain, which can increase pain and inflammation in your joints.
For improved wellness, limit or avoid common refined carbohydrates, such as enriched breads, pasta and cereals; instant rice; commercially prepared baked goods; crackers; pretzels; and chips. When purchasing breads and cereals, check food packaging to determine whether the food is prepared with refined carbohydrates. If enriched flour is listed as a primary ingredient and the fiber content of the food is low, seek a healthier option.
Decaffeinated Coffee
Consuming decaffeinated coffee may contribute to arthritis symptoms. A study published in "Arthritis and Rheumatism" in January 2002, showed a positive correlation between decaffeinated coffee consumption and rheumatoid arthritis. In the study, the diets and health of 31,336 women between ages 55 and 69, none of whom were at risk for rheumatoid arthritis, were examined. Researcher Ted R. Mikuls et al. found in this study that women who drank four or more cups of decaffeinated coffee per day were more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than women who consumed caffeinated coffee or tea. To reap potentially similar benefits, try cutting back or eliminating decaffeinated coffee from your diet. If your symptoms improve, steering clear of decaffeinated coffee may help you manage your condition.
References
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Role of Nutrition in Rheumatoid Arthritis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Arthritis and Rheumatism"; Coffee, tea, and caffeine consumption and risk of rheumatoid arthritis: Results from the Iowa Women's Health Study; Ted R. Mikuls et al.; Jan. 2002
