Diet for Arthritis Sufferers

Arthritis, a condition where the joints are not in good shape as they lose mobility and strength is a painful prospect. I mean it does not sound very inviting if it I tell you that your knee joints will pain or knuckles will be stiff, right? But jokes apart, for those who go through it, have a real tough time dealing with it. But thankfully, with the help of medicines and physiotherapy things can be better. But in addition to this, in the opinion of some experts, diet also has an important role to play in dealing with arthritis. Take a look.

Diet for Arthritis Patients

It is difficult to tell what exactly to eat and what to not. Arthritis diet is entirely dependent on the person's overall eating habits and what all is available amongst the things believed to be good to get relief from arthritis. Even if not relief, at least make sure that the situation does not worsen. So here are a few pointers and suggestions which will be useful towards that objective.

The Good Fat
Well, cholesterol and bad fat is a complete no-no for those suffering from arthritis. But we need to have some amount of fats as a substance for lubrication of joints. So omega-3 essential fatty acids are good fats, which have an anti-inflammatory effect on the joints. Although fish oil is the ultimate source of omega 3 fatty acids, linseed and flaxseed oil too are loaded with Omega-3's. Tryptophan, another substance connected with fats also augurs well for the health of arthritis sufferers. Its basic advantage is that it decreases the pain in a short period of time after consumption. Peanuts, beans, soy milk and sunflower seeds are a few amongst rich sources of tryptophan which can be incorporated in their diet by arthritis patients.

The Inflamed Reality
Medicines cannot be a long term option, though for those suffering from moderate to severe arthritis, medicines cannot be avoided. However, it does not in any way imply that their diet can be without anti-inflammatory foodstuffs. Such foodstuffs can be a good alternative against medicines to reduce inflammation caused by arthritis. Fruits and some dry fruits like apricots and walnuts are effective in keeping joint pain under control. Skin of grapes also has an anti-inflammatory property. Ginger, turmeric, and garlic too have good anti-inflammatory properties.

Color Therapy
The elements which give fruits their color, flavonoids, they too help in preventing disease. The aging and degeneration process of our bodies is slowed down by these flavonoids. Foods rich in flavonoids are apples, soy, onions, and green tea and onions and these help reduce joint pain.

Oxidants Galore
Foods that are loaded with antioxidants have to be included in the diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great when it comes to diet for arthritis relief. Oranges, grapefruit, broccoli, avocados and cauliflower contain lot of antioxidants. These help lessen pain caused by arthritis. Diet to cure arthritis will be incomplete sans the foodstuffs having antioxidants.

The Vital Stats
If enough vitamins and minerals are not being consumed through diet, like Vitamin D, E, B vitamins, calcium, a good option for those suffering from arthritis is to take supplements for whichever is lacking in the diet. An individual is most likely to get his quota of these vitamins and minerals with fruits and vegetables and other substances earlier mentioned. As a part of anti-arthritis diet, if the need be vitamin supplements can be taken in consultation with a doctor. Arthritis diet and food needs to have vitamins and minerals.

In addition to this fibrous foods and starchy foods in some amounts are necessary for proper bowel movement and energy supply respectively. These things form a significant part of overall arthritis treatment.

Now diet for arthritis can also include what should be avoided. The foods to avoid with arthritis are -

• Dairy products
• Excess sugar and salt
• Caffeinated and carbonated drinks
• Red meat
• Additives and preservatives
• Vegetables like tomatoes, eggplant, red peppers, etc.
• Tobacco or smoking
• Alcohol

Finally, the diet also has to include keeping tabs on salt or sodium consumption to be specific. All these things point out to a balanced diet, which is important to maintain health even otherwise. But in case of arthritis patients it is even more significant as they have to keep their weight in check. That is to avoid joint injuries and a host of other health complications. I sign off here! Take care!