1. Cut Out Excess Sodium, Sugar and Fat
The key to alleviating arthritis inflammation and pain is to keep fluid from collecting around the joints. Fats from animal sources such as meat and dairy can worsen arthritis and should be avoided. Instead of full-fat dairy products, choose low-fat milk, yogurt and cottage cheese. Rather than fatty cuts of meat, choose lean poultry and fish. Not only fat, but sodium and sugar can also result in painful joint tenderness and inflammation. Instead of basing a meal around bread or red meat, turn a salad or a plate of fruit into the central component of the meal. Instead of using salt or sugar as your main spices, experiment with dill, garlic, rosemary and other flavorful herbs.
2. Eat Foods That Are Easily Eliminated
One of the first things that people do to control inflammation is to use over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen (also known as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, or NSAIDs). However, prolonged use of these drugs to control arthritic inflammation can lead to even greater health concerns, including kidney failure. It's a far better idea to try to control inflammation with diet and gentle movement. Fresh vegetables and especially fresh fruits are composed of mostly water, and keep the body clean and elimination easy. These fresh foods are naturally low in sodium and fat and can help you stay full, so you don't end up feeling deprived on your anti-inflammatory diet. Keep in mind that tomatoes and eggplant can worsen inflammation. If these are favorite foods, eat a moderate amount and record how you feel the next day. In fact, keeping a food journal is always a good idea when you are modifying a diet in the hopes of physical relief.
3. Eat for Weight Reduction
Since arthritis is a painful condition centered around the joints, anything that can take excess pressure off the joints will help control the pain. If you are overweight, upping your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables will not only hydrate your body and help to reduce the acidity, which can make arthritis worse, but it can also help to keep excess pounds off.
