Arthritis Pain Relief Diets

From LoveToKnow Diet

Arthritis pain relief diets may offer relief to those suffering from certain types of arthritis.

What is Arthritis?

You may have recently been diagnosed or simply suspect you are showing signs of arthritis, or have a loved one who has been diagnosed with this malady. Arthritis refers to the inflammation or other problems of the joints and connective tissues in the body. Arthritis is considered a blanket term that actually covers over 100 related diseases, and it is sometimes referred to as rheumatism.

Approximately one in seven people suffer from some form of arthritis, and because there are so many forms of this disease, it is essential that your doctor diagnose your condition appropriately before you seek help from arthritis pain relief diets or any other type of relief. For example, it is easier to see a correlation between dietary choices and those who have been diagnosed with gout than with those who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The earlier a correct diagnosis is made to determine the type of arthritis, the quicker relief can be provided and complications avoided.

Arthritis Pain Relief Diets

Those who suffer from arthritis typically experience pain in the joints due to stiffness or inflammation. Diet has been shown to make a difference, but to see results it is imperative that those suffering from arthritis eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. It's no secret that poor food choices can wreak havoc on your body, and in the same respect, certain foods can boost your immune system. With this premise in mind, it's easy to see the correlation between eating a healthy diet and easing arthritis aches and pains. Recommendations for healthy eating for those who have been diagnosed with arthritis include the following:

Eat a well-balanced diet
Avoid alcoholic drinks
Avoid fasting
Avoid crash dieting
Drink plenty of water
Control weight gain
Increase intake of calcium
Keep a food diary

Good Food Choices

Good food choices to be incorporated in the daily diet oft those diagnosed with arthritis include the following:

Sweet Potatoes
Spinach
Squash
Bell Pepper
Broccoli
Mango
Papaya
Strawberries
Apples
Peaches
Brown rice
Chick Peas
Whole wheat bread
Ginger
Turmeric
Garlic
Sunflower seeds
Almonds
Walnuts
Pumpkin seeds

Keep in mind that nuts should be unsalted.

Foods to Avoid

Just as there are certain "good" foods to help alleviate symptoms, there are also foods that should be avoided, like the following:

Red meats
Chocolate
Fried foods
Coffee
Tea
Tomatoes

Dietary Guidelines

While everyone should follow the common dietary guidelines published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, those who have health issues should be even more conscious of making healthy food choices. These guidelines include the following:

Eat a variety of foods from the four basic food groups (breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, meats, and dairy) to obtain the over forty essential nutrients necessary for good health.
Be weight conscious by recognizing that less weight provides less strain on the joints.
Include adequate amounts of starch and fiber into your daily diet. Good starches include whole grain breads, cereal, and pastas, along with rice, beans, and potatoes.
Avoid excess amounts of fat and saturated fat, which can contribute to higher levels of cholesterol and weight gain.
Avoid alcohol, which can deplete the body of vitamins and minerals and may interact with arthritis medications.
Avoid excess sugar, which adds empty calories without any nutritional value.
Avoid excess salt which can add water retention and increase blood pressure.

Finally, remember that as with any health issue, it is important to discuss your dietary choices with your doctor. He or she can advise you as to the appropriate arthritis pain relief diets suitable for you to follow, and your doctor can monitor your progress as you change your diet and/or try new medicines.

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