Foods To Eat And Avoid For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common joint condition in the world. It involves the degeneration of joints as well as their overuse. Common symptoms include swollen joints, joint pain, stiffness in the joints, and reduced range of motion. Arthritis affects the fingers, wrists, knees, and hips the most often, though it can affect any joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common forms of the condition. Those with this condition look for any form of relief possible. The great news is there are many ways to manage rheumatoid arthritis!
There are several medications designed to treat joint pain, and there are a few natural supplements for joint pain and stiffness as well. Some people look specifically for arthritis back pain treatment and there are even specialized juvenile rheumatoid arthritis treatment options out there! When it comes to natural remedies for joint pain and inflammation, along with supplements, diet also helps enormously!
Salt
When it comes to food those with rheumatoid arthritis should avoid, there is perhaps nothing more important than salt. Many medications taken for this condition cause the body to retain more sodium than normal, which can impact the inflammation linked to arthritis. This means their bloodstream will absorb more and cause swelling, worsening arthritis symptoms overall.
This effect is put at the forefront if people with arthritis consume lots of salt in their diet. They should thus avoid consuming lots of convenience foods like frozen dinners, fast food, and many processed foods (such as lunch meat). A diet low in sodium will help those with arthritis tolerate their medication and symptoms much better.
Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates, including white rice, white bread, crackers, and many baked goods, is also linked to increased inflammation. This is because refined carbohydrates are high on the glycemic index! Some studies suggest these foods also play more of a role in obesity and chronic conditions than fatty foods do.
The white flour used in refined carbohydrates has been processed to the point where most of the nutrients have been removed. Thus, those with rheumatoid arthritis aren’t getting any benefits from it! Instead, these people should turn to whole grains and whole wheat options. This means eating brown rice, whole grain bread, whole-wheat pasta, and similar carbohydrates.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a powerful food when it comes to those with arthritis. This vegetable is known to reduce inflammation and swelling, and dealing with pain as a result of these, making it perfect for arthritis patients to eat. Besides these properties, broccoli also has lots of vitamins C, K, and A. All of these vitamins repair cell damage, which is great at treating arthritis. Broccoli is also a major source of calcium, like other leafy greens, which boosts bone strength. Strong bones are vital, especially when dealing with arthritis! Broccoli can be eaten raw, streamed, or included in countless recipes, such as salads, casseroles, and stir-fries.
Fatty Fish
Fish, especially fatty fish, provide everyone with invaluable nutrients. One such nutrient is omega-3, which is incredible at reducing inflammation and swelling in those with arthritis. Fish is also a major dietary source of vitamin D, which is one vitamin most arthritis patients don’t get enough of. The best fish to consume are salmon, mackerel, and trout. Canned sardines and tuna also contain these nutrients!
Of course, how the fish is cooked does influence its health benefits. The best ways to cook fish are to bake or steam it. Both options don’t use unhealthy oils! Some oils, such as avocado oil, are good for those with arthritis, so if fish is fried, these should be used.
Walnuts
Walnuts are the best nut out there for those dealing with rheumatoid arthritis. Those with this condition, we know, are at a much higher risk of heart disease. Walnuts have proven to be the best nuts at reducing this risk! This is because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, and unsaturated fat. All are beneficial for reducing heart disease risk and inflammation. They reduce heart disease risk in several ways, including reducing blood pressure. The effects of omega-3s in walnuts are also likely to have the same effect on joint pain as the omega-3s found in fish, though more research is required on this.