A variety of alternatives diets are available for those who suffer from arthritis, a disease that causes joint pain, swelling and fatigue. Experts at the University of Washington School of Medicine ascertain that a healthy diet is particularly important for those who struggle with the disease its symptoms can hinder the appetite, making it tough to reap necessary nutrients. Though alternatives diets aren't designed to replace conventional therapist or medical care, they have served as helpful supplementation, in some cases.
Types
The most common diets for arthritis sufferers are anti-inflammatory diets, elimination diets and general healthy lifestyle plans. Anti-inflammatory diets encourage intake of particular foods, such as fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. According to Professor Christopher Cannon of Harvard Medical School, these foods promote positive joint health by reducing pain and swelling and strengthening the body's immune system. Elimination diets exclude foods from the nightshade family, such as dairy products, potatoes and citrus fruits as it is believed that intolerance to these foods might be at the root of symptoms, according to the National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The foods are reintroduced gradually to see which of the foods, if any, influence symptoms. Overall healthy diets generally encourage eating low-fat, high fiber foods, including fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources and whole grain carbohydrates, while restricting processed foods such as sugary sweets and fried foods. They may also encourage exercise.
Time Frame
Alternative diets for arthritis may take as little one to four weeks or they may continue as long-term, lifestyle plans. If an anti-inflammatory diet is helpful in reducing your symptoms, you may wish to avoid or eliminate the foods that trigger symptoms continually. Elimination diets evolve in phases. In general, particular foods are avoided for one to four weeks. Once these foods are reintroduced, those that do not cause or exacerbate symptoms can be included in the diet. Those that cause negative reactions should be avoided long-term. An overall healthy lifestyle plan is designed to continue indefinitely.
Side Effects
Side effects from alternative diets for arthritis are unlikely as long as plenty of healthy foods from all necessary food groups are incorporated. Special attention should be paid to overall food intake to ensure that all nutritional and caloric needs are met. If exercise is a part of your lifestyle plan, proper form and safety will reduce the potential risks for physical injury. To ensure personal health and safety, seek guidance from a trusted health care professional.
Considerations
When choosing whether to try in an alternative diet to ease your arthritis symptoms, you should consider several factors. First, consider your weight. If you are overweight, a diet that encourages healthy weight management, such as an overall healthy lifestyle plan, is ideal. Next consider your symptoms. If pain from swelling is your primary concern and you maintain a healthy weight, you may wish to pursue an anti-inflammatory diet. If you feel a particular food or food group is worsening your symptoms, an elimination diet may suit you. Lastly, consider your personal preferences and need for help. If you find dietary changes fairly easy and have a general knowledge-base pertaining to nutrition, you'll likely need less guidance than someone who has no nutritional experience or someone whose lifestyle is far removed from an alternate, healthy plan. A health care professional with knowledge of alternative diets can help you determine what arthritis diet is right for you.
Benefits
Most alternative lifestyle plans for arthritis encourage consumption of healthy foods. They promote ample intake of fruits and vegetables which, in addition to their potential anti-inflammatory capabilities, provide helpful antioxidants that can reduce your risk of added disease. The diets are also generally low in saturated fats, such as those found in fried foods and red meat, and are moderate in healthy fats, such as nuts, fatty fish and plant-based oils. These healthy fats contribute to positive heart health and proper brain function. When the diet changes are effective, benefits may include reduced pain, swelling and lethargy. Healthy weight management may result as well, which can contribute to positive heart health, emotional well-being and longevity.
