All About Arthritis

Arthritis is coming to be considered as an inevitable part of growing old. In the United States, over 40 million people suffer from arthritis – the resulting cost to the US economy is to the tune of over 130 billion dollars, according to studies conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Studies have shown that people who suffer from arthritis can improve symptoms by changing their diet. The cause of arthritis can stem from various situations. Certainly, genetics plays a role in whether a person will develop arthritis. Other factors include age, weight, previous injuries, some high-level sports, and illness or infection.

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Inflammation is often seen in Arthritis and this is because the human body naturally reacts to injuries by inflaming the surrounding area by producing an overdose of cytokines. These secreted protein molecules act as the messenger between brain cells and body parts. Some food types aggravate cytokine production, resulting in an extra dose of it. Reducing inflammation caused during Arthritis helps to relieve joint pain and restricted movement, so it’s important to reduce the intake of cytokine-producing foods in your daily diet.

There are several fruits that fight inflammation. The more colors your diet includes, the better it is – fruits and vegetables that are highly colored have phytochemicals, which fight inflammation. Vitamin C also helps battle arthritis, so fruits like raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, mango, apples, kiwi fruit etc. should be a part of the diet for people with arthritis.

Vegetables are another important source of vitamin C, and also of vitamin A. Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, squash, kale and collard greens should figure prominently in the diet of people who suffer from arthritis.

Omega-3 fatty acids also help people with arthritis. Most kinds of fish are rich in this, but high mercury levels in fish is a concern. A four ounce portion of mackerel, salmon, trout or sardines two or three times a week is enough to give your body what it needs to fight arthritis.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to locate mercury-free fish. Try typing in “mercury-free fish resources” at your favorite search engine. Additionally, you can search for mercury-free fish oil supplements.

Fish is not the only source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts and seeds are also a great source of this. However, you have to be careful to stay away from salted nuts and dry roasted nuts. Overdoing it is also a concern – twelve almonds are enough to give you the Omega-3 essential fatty acids you need during the day.

Whole grains are good, while processed foods should be avoided. Lentils should also be a regular part of the diet. Quinoa, also called the Mother of all Grains, amaranth, chick peas, lentils and brown rice are also healthy choices.

Gluten is a component of grains such as wheat, oats, barley and rye. Gluten is known to cause inflammation within the body and many individuals may be allergic to it without even realizing. Studies have shown that wheat and corn can irritate patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac disease.

There are several other food products that can cause arthritic inflammation and therefore, should be avoided. These include red meat, milk and other dairy products, sugar, artificial sweeteners, flour, honey, coffee, tea, alcohol, chocolate, tobacco, white potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and food additives such as MSG (monosodium glutamate).