Arthritis refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation and pain surrounding the joints. Treatment often includes physical therapy, rest, aerobic exercise and/or medication. A healthy dietary lifestyle won't cure the condition, but a healthy dietary lifestyle that limits or restricts foods known to increase inflammation can help manage arthritic symptoms.
Saturated Fats
Saturated fats, commonly found in red meat, whole milk, butter, cheese, ice cream and deep-fried foods, increase your risk for various conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. According to natural health expert Dr. Andrew Weil, unhealthy fats also may worsen inflammation for those with arthritis. Replace saturated fats with plant-based oils, such as olive or canola oil. Nuts and seeds also provide healthy fat in addition to other nutrients that support physical wellness. Rather than fry or grill foods in butter or unhealthy oils, depend upon healthier cooking methods such as steaming, grill in olive oiling or baking. At restaurants ask that high-fat sauces be served "on the side," and order fish or lean poultry father than steak, bacon or other red meats most of the time.
Trans Fats
Trans fats are fats created in a process that involves adding hydrogen to vegetable oil in order to create a longer-lasting, solid form fat. Trans fats increase risk for a variety of diseases and can worsen inflammation for those with arthritis, according to Weil. Trans fats are found in margarine, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, shortening and many processed foods such as canned soups, doughnuts, french fries, pie crust, cookies and other commercially prepared snack foods. These foods typically offer little nutrition and are best replaced with whole, natural foods, such as fruits, vegetables or whole grain-based foods. The American Heart Association suggests no more than 2 percent of your calories come from trans fats, the equivalent of about 2 grams within a 2,000 calorie diet, for optimum wellness.
Processed Carbohydrates
Processed or "refined" carbohydrates are grains that have been stripped of significant nutrient content. Popular examples include white flour, enriched white or wheat bread, sugary cereals, processed cookies and crackers, chips, candy, table sugar and corn syrup. Processed carbohydrates can cause or worsen arthritic inflammation, Weil says. Limit or avoid these foods and replace them with healthier options for best results. Because processed carbohydrates are also associated with decreased heart health and increased cholesterol levels, overall wellness may improve in addition to lessened arthritic pain. When you do indulge in a processed carbohydrate, keep your portion sizes modest.
