Arthritis actually describes several diseases that result from inflammation of the joints. Conventional treatments for arthritis include corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-rheumatic drugs, pharmaceuticals that halt the advancement of the disease. Although definitive evidence of the effect of diet on arthritis is lacking, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that proper nutrition and exercise are essential factors in the control of stiffness and pain that accompanies the disease.
Anti-inflammatory Diet
Because arthritis is an inflammatory disease, sugar, prepared foods and processed meats -- all foods that increase inflammation in your body -- should be avoided. Saturated fats found in animal proteins and the trans fats in commercially prepared baked goods and vegetable oils raise your risk of heart disease and contribute to other chronic disease. Omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish are also powerful anti-inflammatory substances.
The Elimination Diet
If you notice your arthritis symptoms worsen when you eat certain foods, you may benefit from an elimination diet to determine which foods your body is sensitive to. People who notice an increase in symptoms on weekends or after eating a specific foot item are good candidates for an elimination diet. Conventional elimination diets frequently remove gluten, dairy, caffeine, processed foods and refined sugars from the diet. Following a predetermined length of time, foods are gradually reintroduced to the body one at a time to identify which food types increase your arthritic symptoms.
Stone Age Diet
Commonly referred to as the Stone Age Diet because of its similarity to the food available in prehistoric times, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and fish may help to lower inflammation and reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Detractors of the Stone Age Diet point out that prehistoric humans did not live long enough to develop arthritis, while proponents point out that eating foods the body was designed to eat results in a strong and much healthier life span.
Considerations
While certain foods appear to exacerbate arthritis symptoms, weight-training and aerobic exercise are also essential components in managing your arthritis. A regular exercise program will help to better manage your symptoms, control your weight and generally improve your overall health. Always consult your primary care physician before embarking on any diet or exercise routine intended to treat your arthritis.
