Foods and Drinks to Avoid if You Suffer From Arthritis
If you suffer from arthritis, you know that managing the condition is all about avoiding flare-ups. And while there is a variety of physical activities that can worsen symptoms, another trigger is consuming certain foods and beverages.
This is important information because many people don’t realize that something they’re eating or drinking may be causing a flare-up until a doctor suggests trying an elimination diet—meaning removing things from your diet to see if symptoms change.
CHC for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at six foods and drinks you should avoid if you have arthritis.
- Added Sugars
The problem with added sugars is that they are in so many different foods and drinks—and can often be a surprising addition. Research has found that people consuming sodas and desserts report that those sugary items worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) the most.
- Processed and Red Meat
These types of meat have been known to lead to added inflammation in the body, which naturally will trigger painful symptoms of both RA and inflammatory arthritis. Plant-based diets have been shown to relieve symptoms, and experts say sticking to white meat or fish can also help.
- Gluten
While someone may not be intolerant to gluten, the group of proteins found in wheat, barley, and other carbs can make arthritis symptoms worse. It’s also believed that people with celiac disease are more likely to develop arthritis.
- Highly Processed Foods
Having a diet high in fast food, baked goods, and sugary breakfast cereals is all going to make inflammation in the body worse, and like eating too much processed meat or red meat, this inflammation will lead to worsened symptoms of arthritis.
- Alcohol
Even imbibing in too much alcohol on one occasion can cause problems for those with inflammatory arthritis that affects the spinal cord as well as those who suffer from gout (an arthritic condition in the feet).
