Arthritis pain and symptoms are highly affected by the food you eat. Inflammation, a major cause of arthritis, is often made worse (or better) because of a person’s diet. One can reduce inflammation by eating anti-inflammatory foods like green leafy vegetables, colorful veggies. Avoid these foods if you have arthritis
Omega 6 fatty acids - Corn, peanut, sunflower, safflower, and soy oils, as well as most meats, are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are only healthy in small doses. Excessive omega-6 consumption can trigger inflammatory chemicals.
Processed foods - Avoid processed foods, such as baked goods and pre-packaged meals and snacks. These items contain trans fats to help preserve them, and trans fats trigger systemic inflammation. To escape trans fats, avoid any foods labeled as containing partially hydrogenated oils.
Red meat and fried foods – Meat especially red meat are high in saturated fats, which may cause high cholesterol and inflammation. In addition, meat contains components that stimulate inflammation, particularly when it is broiled, grilled, roasted, or fried. It’s not just fried chicken that you should avoid but also other fried foods, such as donuts and French fries which contain trans fats.
Cheese and high-fat dairy - Cheese, butter, cream cheese, margarine, and mayonnaise are all high in both saturated fats and advanced glycation end products (AGEs)—they’re big inflammation triggers and should be consumed sparingly.
White flour - White flour products, such as white bread, white pasta, are considered refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates, also called refined grains, cause a spike in blood glucose, which has been shown to increase inflammation in the body. People with gluten sensitivities may experience joint pain and inflammation from consuming wheat products.
Alcohol - Experts agree consuming too much alcohol increases inflammation and health risks. However, the research regarding moderate alcohol consumption is mixed.
Sugar and its alternatives - Foods that contain refined sugar including pastries, chocolate, candy, soda, and even fruit juices trigger the release of proteins in the body called cytokines, which cause inflammation. Sugar alternatives are often found in diet sodas, gum, sugar-free candy, and low-fat yogurt and pudding.
Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger inflammation is good for your arthritis but along with this an anti-inflammatory diet will help prevent other chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.