Arthritis is not one disease, but a set of diseases that share inflammation of the joints and mild to severe pain. Of the main types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common. It is a disease characterized by a rather peculiar inefficiency of the immune system. The immune system starts to attack the inner lining of the joints. This has a telling impact on the body as it suffers from damage to synovial tissues, swelling of the joints, bone damage, cartilage damage, inflammation and permanent damage as a whole on its progression. The disease is incurable and the joints become stiff or cease to function if left untreated.

Foods to avoid with arthritis

Fried and processed food:  To put it in simple terms, avoid eating junk food as far as possible. The body’s natural defences can be restored and inflammation reduced over time if you abstain from eating fried and processed food.

AGE:  AGE is a toxin which appears in food items when they are grilled, fried, pasteurized or heated. These toxins damage certain proteins in the body which leads the body to release cytokines to break the AGEs. Cytokines are inflammatory messengers and an increased amount of AGES in the body can lead to onset of arthritis. Try to avoid eating food cooked at high temperatures to reduce the amount of AGEs in these food substances.

Sugars and refined carbohydrates:  Eating food items with too much sugar and refined carbohydrates can lead to an increase of AGEs in the body. Quit eating too many sweets, processed food, sodas, and candy and replace these with other food items. This is one of the many foods to avoid with arthritis.

Dairy products: The type of protein in dairy proteins may lead to arthritis pain. In some people, the presence of this protein in the body may irritate the tissue around the joints. Try to get protein from vegetables like tofu, beans, lentils, and spinach rather than consuming dairy products and meat as they can cause further damage and pain.

Alcohol and tobacco:  Try to avoid drinking and smoking. While this is easier said than done it can go a long way in helping you. People who consume too much alcohol are at a higher risk of developing gout, while people who smoke too much are at a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Other foods to avoid with arthritis include salty food items, food items with preservatives and corn oil. Avoid eating these food items and instead, try to incorporate the food items mentioned below for a healthier being!

Foods that you should eat if you have arthritis 

Fish:  Fish is one of the many must-eat food items when it comes to arthritis. It is packed with inflammation fighting omega-3-fatty acids. Try to eat at least 4 ounces of fish twice a week. Of the many fishes that you can eat, you are recommended to eat salmon, tuna, herring, and mackerel.

Soy:  If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and you wish to load on omega-3-fatty acids without having to eat meat, soybeans are the best option for you. Not only are they are healthy as a whole, but they are high on protein, fiber and low in fat!

Other must-eat food items include olive oil, cherries, broccoli, and green tea. Ensure that you gorge on these food items as they are a sure shot bet to help you with your arthritis!

Treatment and pain management is necessary when it comes to the disease associated with arthritis. They keep the flare-ups at bay, help with the pain, and help to treat inflammation as well. While you may feel the need to take opioids, abstain from their use as they can lead to an addiction. To put it into perspective, over 100 people die each day due to opioid overdose. While this disease is incurable, you can do your bit by eating the above-mentioned foods. Looking for foods to avoid with arthritis? You now know. Visit a doctor immediately if you are experiencing the symptoms of arthritis and seek treatment. You can live a better, healthier life if you follow the right steps.