According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), many arthritis sufferers turn to specialized diets for relief from pain, stiffness and inflammation caused by this common condition. An effective anti-arthritis diet should address a person's total nutritional needs while eliminating inflammatory and high-purine foods; additionally, arthritis sufferers should eat a variety of inflammation-fighting foods such as olive oil, fish and fresh fruit. When used appropriately, dietary modifications can enable near-complete relief from the symptoms of gout, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
The Importance of Healthy Fats
The U.S. National Institutes of Health note that several well-designed studies have demonstrated that the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) can reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis; these compounds also act in synergy with common pharmaceutical treatments for arthritis. While DHA and EPA are found primarily in fish, their chemical cousin alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) occurs in several plant-based oils including olive and flax. NCCAM states that omega-3 fatty acids can trigger the production of anti-inflammatory compounds within the body. People with arthritis should eat foods rich in these pain-relieving compounds; several excellent sources include Alaskan salmon, canola oil, soybean oil and walnuts.
Anti-Inflammatory Fruits
Fruits and vegetables are an essential component of a healthy diet; this is especially true for people with arthritis. In May 2004, the United States Department of Agriculture published a report stating that antioxidant compounds in cherries can reduce symptoms associated with arthritis. Similar anti-inflammatory compounds are found in other blue-red foods, including raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, elderberry, blueberry, cranberry and pomegranate. In addition to targeting arthritis-related inflammation, these compounds may help to eliminate uric acid in the bloodstream, the underlying cause of gout. Foods rich in the protease enzymes papain and bromelain (found in papaya and pineapple, respectively) can also relieve inflammation symptoms.
Foods to Avoid
Gout sufferers should avoid foods high in purines, such as organ meats, bacon, shellfish, luncheon meats and alcohol. According to NCCAM, some arthritis sufferers avoid animal products altogether. In addition to containing purines, animal fat contains compounds that can contribute to inflammation. In theory, a vegetarian, pescetarian or reduced-meat diet can reduce some of the symptoms of arthritis. Additionally, arthritis sufferers should avoid excessive amounts of corn oil and sunflower oil. These fatty acids that hinder the metabolic activities of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats; additionally, they may trigger an inflammation or autoimmune response within the body. NCCAM reports that some arthritis sufferers also avoid theoretical irritants like caffeine, acidic foods, dairy, potatoes and tomatoes.
Misconceptions
While some nutritionists and authors tout anti-arthritis diets as "cures," arthritis sufferers should note that there is no permanent cure for any form of arthritis. The positive benefits of anti-arthritis diets dissipate after the person stops adhering to the regimen. Additionally, while acknowledging that a healthy diet is essential for anyone with a chronic condition, NCCAM states there is no documented, conclusive evidence to support the use of any specific diet as a treatment for arthritis.
Considerations
Diets that contain less meat, healthier fats and more fruits and vegetables are inherently beneficial. However, radically restrictive diets may cause arthritis sufferers to lose key nutritional elements; NCCAM suggests that all patients discuss major dietary modifications with a licensed professional. Because anti-arthritis diets may contain fewer calories than conventional diets, use them with caution if you have a history of malnutrition or an eating disorder.
