Psoriatic Arthritis Diet

I am interested in physical medicine because my father was. I am interested in medical research because I believe in it. I am interested in arthritis because I have it. ~ Bernard M. Baruch

One of the many different types of arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, is a disease in which a person suffers from psoriasis, a skin disease, as well as from arthritis. In many cases, psoriasis is observed in the initial stages which later on develops to psoriatic arthritis. But, in a few cases arthritis develops before psoriasis and in some, both psoriasis and arthritis occur together. Along with pain in joints, other symptoms like inflammation and stiffness, to some extent like with rheumatoid arthritis, are also observed. Psoriatic arthritis has affected almost 2 percent of the US population, of both genders to the same extent. The best way to manage the symptoms of the disorder is by taking a psoriatic arthritis diet.

Healthy Diet for Psoriatic Arthritis

• The most important mantra of the psoriatic arthritisis diet is to choose a combination of foods, so that all the variety is included and it will also ensure that you get the much required nutrients, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and proteins. The diet should include different vegetables, fruits, dairy products, grains and meat. Small meals should be taken after short intervals of time, instead of having two big meals. Try to eat vegetables of different colors which will guarantee that different nutrients are consumed. Consuming cold water fish like tuna, salmon, sardines, mackerel, etc. that are rich in nutrients like omega 3 essential fatty acids is beneficial for controlling inflammation.
• It is a must to keep the energy levels high, so that you do not suffer from fatigue which happens very often to people who have psoriatic arthritis. For maintaining the energy levels, it is a must to eat regularly. But, while doing this, take care that you do not overeat. Prepare a proper schedule of your diet and make it a point to follow it.
• Make sure that you do not consume foods high in cholesterol and fats. Also, sugar and salt should be consumed in moderate amounts.
• Though, consumpton of dietary supplements is useful, take care that you do not consume supplements and medicines which interact with your food. Intake of red meat should be limited, as it is said to increase the pain. Avoid cookies, chips, crackers and other processed foods.

Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis vary from person to person. The most obvious symptom is pain in the joints. Also, the joints swell and are warm to touch. Another symptom observed are grayish or silvery spots which are seen mostly on the elbows, scalp, knees and lower end of the backbone. At times, rough rashes are also observed in these areas. Pitting of nails and fatigue are also seen among some people. In some cases, the joints become stiff in the morning. Tendinitis and conjunctivitis are some other symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment

The best psoriatic arthritis cure is to maintain balanced weight. Apart from that, warm water therapy will help in reducing the stiffness in the joints. Ice can help in reducing swelling. A person suffering from psoriatic arthritis can do swimming or arthritis water exercises, and can also opt for relaxation techniques. But, along with all this, proper arthritis pain medication is a must. Healing foods like pineapple, alfalfa, oregano, etc. are also recommended for arthritis treatment. Read more on: herbs for arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic disease, which is also hereditary. But, when psoriatic arthritis diet is combined with proper exercise, the pain associated with the condition can be alleviated to a large extent. Read more on: types of arthritis.