We’ve all heard the saying, ”you are what you eat” and to a certain extent that is true. The types of food that we eat can have a substantial effect on our bodies. They can be both good and bad, depending on what we eat. For example, if we eat peanuts, we will have a slow release of energy which is good for the body but if we eat sugary sweets and drinks, we risk breakouts on our skin.
This is the same for those living with arthritis. Pain and inflammation are some of the biggest concerns those living with arthritis have to deal with and there are foods out there that can help and hinder them. Today, we want to share the top 5 foods that you should avoid to help keep arthritis inflammation at bay.
Nightshade Vegetables
Also known as ”Solanaceae”, these vegetables include aubergine, potatoes, tomatoes, and bell peppers. They are known to cause inflammation.
Nightshade vegetables contain alkaloids which are nitrogen-containing substances that can possibly have an effect on those living with arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
Fast Food
There is a reason we all love fast food. It’s convenient, generally less expensive, and full of trans-fat oils that make us want more. Trans-fat oils have a lot of omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 6 in moderation is good for you but, eating fast foods means we are consuming a higher amount of omega 6 and this can lead to increased inflammation.
Eating Omega 6 fatty acids triggers a response in our bodies. Our bodies are now triggering fibrin to build up in our joints. Fibrin is a healing protein and this is called to the front line when our body thinks it needs healing.
This can cause inflammation and when fibrin continues to build when it is not really needed, we have unnecessary pain and inflammation.
Processed Sugar
In one can of full-sugar carbonated drink, you actually consume more sweetener and artificial flavorings than you should in 1 week. It’s a scary stat, isn’t it?
Eating and drinking processed sugar triggers a response in our bodies to release pro-inflammatory cytokines. These Cytokines are actually good for us, our immune system releases them to help us with injury, infections, or trauma. When they are released for no reason though, it can cause unnecessary pain and inflammation in our joints.
Gluten
Today, many people actually carry the gene for celiac disease which can make them more susceptible to the inflammation that gluten can cause.
If you or a loved one are living with arthritis, it is best to steer clear of gluten. Even though only 1% of the UK’s population has celiac disease, gluten sensitivity is actually quite common.
Blackened/Charred Foods
Summertime means the BBQ is out of hibernation, bundies and hot dogs are on the menu, or are they?
When we cook foods at high temperatures over an open flame this can lead to something known as Advanced Glycation End (AGE’s) and they are known to cause inflammation of the joints as well as our vascular systems.
We’re not saying that grilling is bad for you, we are just saying to keep an eye and be on the lookout for triggers that might cause an arthritis flare-up for you or your loved ones.
Trying to give up some of our favourite food and drink can be a tough one. Why not start off small, cut them out for a short period of time, and see if you feel better and if these 5 foods were in fact triggers for arthritis inflammation. For more information on arthritis and food, visit the NHS website here.
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