9 Foods to Avoid With Arthritis

If you’re living with arthritis, you know how tough it can be to manage the symptoms. The pain, stiffness, and swelling can make daily tasks feel like a chore. But did you know that what you eat can actually make a big difference in how you feel? That’s right! The foods you put into your body can either help soothe your symptoms or make them worse. In this article, I’m going to share with you nine foods you might want to avoid if you have arthritis. Trust me, making a few changes in your diet could make a world of difference.

Fried and Processed Foods Can Increase Inflammation

Fried and processed foods might taste good, but they’re definitely not doing your arthritis any favors. Foods like fried chicken, french fries, and even pre-packaged meals are often loaded with trans fats and preservatives. And here’s the thing: these unhealthy fats can increase inflammation in your body, which is something you want to avoid at all costs if you have arthritis. Arthritis Foundation explains that consuming a diet high in trans fats can worsen arthritis symptoms by promoting inflammation throughout your body. So, what’s the alternative? Try opting for foods that are baked, grilled, or steamed instead. Your joints will thank you!

Sugary Snacks and Beverages Can Worsen Symptoms

I get it—everyone loves a sweet treat now and then. But here’s the catch: sugary snacks and beverages can trigger flare-ups in people with arthritis. You might wonder why this happens. Well, consuming high amounts of sugar can lead to an increase in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can cause your body to produce more inflammation. This means that your favorite soda, candy, or even that piece of cake could be making your arthritis worse. Numerous evidence suggest that reducing your intake of added sugars can help reduce inflammation and, in turn, alleviate some of your arthritis symptoms.

Refined Carbohydrates Are Not Your Friend

Refined carbohydrates, like white bread, pasta, and most baked goods, can spike your blood sugar levels and increase inflammation. You might not think of a slice of bread as being harmful, but refined carbs can actually trigger the release of pro-inflammatory substances in your body. This can worsen your arthritis symptoms over time. According to the Arthritis Foundation switching to whole grains instead of refined grains can help you manage your arthritis better. So, when next you’re at the grocery store, reach for the whole-grain options instead!

High-fat Dairy Foods Products May Cause Discomfort

This one might surprise you, but for some people with arthritis, full-fat dairy products, like cheese and butter, can actually cause discomfort. The proteins found in dairy can sometimes irritate the tissues around your joints, leading to increased pain. Arthritis Foundation experts believe that some individuals with arthritis may benefit from reducing or eliminating dairy from their diet to see if it helps with their symptoms. If you find that dairy is a trigger for you, there are plenty of plant-based alternatives, like almond milk or soy yogurt, that you can try.

Red Meat Can Trigger Inflammation

Red meat, especially when consumed in large quantities, can trigger inflammation in your body. This is partly due to the high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol found in red meat. Some research links the consumption of red meat has been linked to increased levels of inflammatory markers in the body, which can worsen arthritis symptoms. If you’re a fan of steak, consider cutting back and opting for leaner protein sources like chicken, turkey, or plant-based options instead.

Alcohol Can Exacerbate Symptoms

Alcohol might be a nice way to unwind after a long day, but it can also exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Alcohol can increase inflammation, particularly in the joints, making your symptoms worse. A review published in the National Library of Medicine found that alcohol consumption can interfere with arthritis medications and increase the risk of joint damage. So, if you’re dealing with arthritis, it might be worth limiting your alcohol intake to see if it makes a difference in how you feel.

Salt and Preservatives Can Worsen Swelling

Too much salt in your diet can lead to water retention, which can increase swelling and discomfort in your joints. Many processed foods are loaded with salt and preservatives, which can make your arthritis symptoms worse. Reducing your salt intake and opting for fresh, whole foods can help decrease swelling and pain. So, pay attention to those labels and try to choose low-sodium options whenever possible.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids Can Be Problematic

Omega-6 fatty acids are found in many types of cooking oils, like corn, sunflower, and soybean oils. While your body needs some omega-6 fatty acids, consuming too much can lead to increased inflammation, which is not what you want if you have arthritis. Balancing your intake of omega-6 fatty acids with omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) can help reduce inflammation and improve your arthritis symptoms.

High Purine Foods Can Trigger Gout Attacks

For those with gout, a type of arthritis, high-purine foods can be particularly problematic. Foods like organ meats, certain types of fish, and even some vegetables like asparagus can lead to an increase in uric acid levels, which can trigger a gout attack. Research has shown that reducing your intake of high-purine foods can help prevent gout flare-ups and keep your symptoms under control. If you have gout, it’s worth paying attention to your purine intake and making adjustments as needed.

Changing your diet might seem challenging at first, but it’s really worth it when it comes to managing arthritis. By avoiding these nine foods, you can help reduce inflammation, ease your symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life.