Arthritis is not one disease but many; there are over 100 types of arthritis, according to MedlinePlus. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that normally protects the joints wears down. Bone rubs against bone, causing inflammation, swelling and pain. Nearly one out of seven people suffers from some type of arthritis, with osteoarthritis being the most common type, MedlinePlus states. Some foods may help decrease the pain of arthritis, and losing weight can also help decrease the stress on the joints.
Weight Loss Benefits
Losing weight can help decrease pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis by relieving pressure on the joints of the hips, knees and ankles. Being even 10 pounds overweight increases the force on your knees by 30 to 60 pounds with each step, Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center reports. Obesity also increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis in your knees fourfold for women and fivefold for men, the Center states. Being overweight can also increase arthritis in the hands.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring as well as walnuts, wheat germ and flaxseed may help decrease inflammation in the joints, which decreases pain. Most studies have looked at the role of omega-3 fatty acids in treating rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, the University of Maryland Medical Center website states, although some studies have also tested omega-3 fatty acids in osteoarthritis, a disease associated with aging and wear and tear on the joints. While omega-3 fatty acids help with the symptoms, they don't change the amount of destruction to the cartilage.
Assessing Food Allergies
Temporary arthritis symptoms of joint pain and inflammation may occur as part of an allergic reaction to some foods, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine reports. Avoid common allergens such as dairy products, corn, eggs, wheat, citrus foods for four weeks while eating only foods that rarely cause allergic reactions. Then add back the possible allergens one at a time to check for reactions.
Decreasing Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the breakdown of proteins into uric acid. Uric acid crystals build up in joints, particularly the big toe joint. People who consume large amounts of protein, particularly organ meats, shellfish, sardines and those who drink large amounts of alcohol, particularly beer, are most likely to develop gout. While other factors also contribute to gout, decreasing consumption of these substances can help reduce attacks.
Antioxidant Benefits
Antioxidants help destroy free radicals, which damage cells and increase inflammation in damaged joints, PCRM reports. Common antioxidants include beta-carotene, found in carrots and sweet potatoes, vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables, vitamin E, found in grains and vegetables and selenium, also found in many grains.
