Foods contain all essential nutrients needed by your body: fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Therefore your diet does affect various organs and tissues, including your joints, bones and muscles. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints associated with pain and decreased range of motion in the affected joints. Some forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus affect not only the joints, but also major organs like heart and kidneys. The Mediterranean diet contains all major groups of foods and also helps decrease inflammation in the body, and is beneficial for arthritis sufferers. Talk to a doctor before making any major changes in your diet.
Healthy Diet For Arthritis
Most scientific organizations encourage healthy adults to eat Mediterranean-style diet for preventing chronic diseases, according to MayoClinic.com. Mediterranean diet provides proteins and healthy fats from legumes, fish, lean meats and dairy products. Healthy carbohydrates as well as vitamins and minerals are found in whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits. This diet suggests consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, legumes, herbs and spices on a daily basis. Fish and seafood should be consumed at least twice a week. You can have poultry, eggs, cheese and yogurt in moderate portions most days, while red meats and sweets should be consumed few times a month. Butter and margarine should be replaced with olive oil, and salt intake can be decreased by adding more herbs and spices to your diet. Moderate consumption of red wine is also allowed. Also drink plenty of water and exercise on a regular basis.
Research
Mediterranean diet help decrease the pain, stiffness and progression of inflammatory arthritis and should be considered in individuals diagnosed with these conditions, according to a study published in January 2009 issue of "Reumatismo." The authors suggest that diet may help arthritis sufferers because contains omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and other nutrients with anti-inflammatory qualities. Same source indicates that Mediterranean diet is beneficial for other conditions including obesity, diabetes, heart diseases and cancer.
Sample Breakfast
A quick and easy to make Mediterranean style breakfast is yogurt with granola. This includes 1 cup of low fat, low sugar yogurt, 1/4 cup of almonds, 1/4 cup of rolled oats and 1/2 cup of fresh berries. Simply add the almonds, oats and berries to your yogurt.
Considerations
Diet is important for managing arthritis and improve your overall health. Consult a qualified health acre provider who can recommend you an individualized diet based on you nutritional needs. Daily exercise is also important for bone and joint health. Keep in mind that diet alone does not replace and should not be used to replace any prescription drugs for arthritis.
