Arthritis is a medical term referring to inflammation of the joints. There are several types of arthritis, the most common of which are osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease caused by loss of cartilage in the joint, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease causing severe swelling of the joints. While the causes may differ, each type of arthritis can be made worse through poor diet. Consult your health care provider for medical treatment of arthritis. You should also consider proper nutrition and a holistic diet as part of your treatment plan.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are an important part of a holistic diet. Experts agree that a variety of foods are important for proper nutrition, but certain foods have natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate joint pain associated with arthritis. Fruits rich in enzymes such as pineapple and papaya have been shown to inhibit inflammation in the body. The Clayton College of Natural Health herb reference guide list both pineapple and papaya as natural treatments for arthritis and sports injuries. Make sure you eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables each day.
Whole Grains
It is no secret that whole grains are good for you. They are rich in several vitamins, minerals and fiber. The trace mineral selenium protects cells against free radical damage. Research shows that individuals with certain types of arthritis have lower levels of selenium. According to the National Institutes of Health, increasing dietary selenium may help relieve symptoms of arthritis by reducing free radicals damage. Selenium is found naturally in whole grains such as wheat, Brazil nuts, as well as shellfish and oysters.
Seafoods
Seafood such as salmon, tuna and halibut are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Arthritis Today cites several studies which showed that arthritis patients treated with Omega-3's had significant improvement in pain, mobility and stiffness. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in cold water fish, nuts and seeds. Conversely, Omega-6 fatty acids, found mostly in corn, safflower, soybean, cottonseed oil, fried foods and margarine, have been found to worsen inflammation. Avoid processed and deep-fat fried foods, while including more fresh cold water fish, nuts and seeds in your diet.
Dietary Don'ts
When trying to control arthritis flare-ups, avoiding the wrong kinds of food can be just as important as including the right kinds of food in your diet. Not only do certain foods such as refined sugar and flour, excess sodium and deep-fat fried foods cause increased inflammation in the body, they can also lead to weight gain and obesity, another contributing factor for arthritis. Avoid processed foods, which are high in refined sugar, like cola and other sweets, as well as snack foods like potato chips -- all of which are high in calories, but low in vital nutrients.
