Pseudogout, also known as calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease, or CPPD, is an inflammatory condition characterized by acute, recurrent and rarely chronic arthritis involving large joints. Most often seen in persons age 60 or older, it commonly affects the knees and wrists. Other joints frequently affected are the hips, shoulders, elbows and ankles. Treatment generally consists of anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, although dietary modifications may help. Before starting any new diet, talk to your health care specialist.
Pro-inflammatory Foods
Like other forms of arthritis, pseudogout is associated with swelling, warmth and redness of the joints. These symptoms indicate an underlying inflammatory process. Foods that promote inflammation include those that contain omega-6 fatty acids and trans fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are a class of polyunsaturated fatty acid present in vegetable oils such as corn, peanut and soybean oil. Trans fatty acids are chemically engineered compounds present in margarine and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, a common ingredient in commercial baked goods.
Anti-inflammatory Foods
Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids exert an anti-inflammatory effect that may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of pseudogout, according to Nathan Wei, M.D. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oily fish such as salmon and sardines. Flaxseeds are also noted for their high concentrations of omega-3s, as are chia seeds. Walnuts are another abundant source of omega-3s; however, walnuts also contain higher amounts of pro-inflammatory omega-6s than what is found in fish or seeds.
Antioxidants
Wei recommends a plant-based diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants. These free radical scavengers, including the vitamins A, C and E, and the mineral selenium, may help to reduce the joint damage associated with inflammation. Among the foods noted for their anti-oxidant capability are asparagus, artichokes, broccoli and red cabbage. Berries are also high in anti-oxidants, as are certain types of nuts, including walnuts and pecans. Spices such as cinnamon, turmeric and ginger are also good sources.
Considerations
To date, no randomized trials have shown diet to be effective in the treatment or prevention of pseudogout. Because attacks are characterized by severe pain, sufferers may require medications aimed at reducing the severity and preventing further episodes. Other types of joint disease, including gout and rheumatoid arthritis, can mimic the symptoms of pseudogout. If you suffer pain or redness of your joints, talk to your doctor.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee; 2009
- Arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com: Diet for pseudogout
- "Pathologic Basis of Disease"; Vinay Kumar; 2005
- USDA Agricultural Research Service: Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) of Selected Foods, Release 2 (2010)
