Arthritis triggers inflammation affecting one or more joints. Symptoms include pain and stiffness that gets worse with age as there is no cure for the chronic inflammatory condition. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are the most diagnosed forms among adults. In most cases, symptoms are mild to moderate and can be managed with healthy changes in food, lifestyle, and prescriptions for pain relief. Eliminating these foods from daily habits can also help ease up symptoms.
Processed, preserved, and sugary foods
Foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket contain copious amounts of sugar and preservatives. Most ready to eat meals are also made with refined flour, fructose, and sucrose that can trigger an imbalance in blood sugar levels. Baked deserts, pastries, white bread, white rice, and pasta are some of the common refined foods to avoid. Sweets, candies, and sugary beverages including flavored sodas can also flare up symptoms.
Unhealthy fats
Saturated and trans fats are the worst and persistent triggers of inflammation linked to arthritis. Red meats, full fat dairy products like milk, cheese, and deserts made with refined grains all contain saturated fats. Trans fats can be found in fried foods, frozen foods, and products that are mostly made with margarine or hydrogenated vegetable oils. Avoid these fats at all costs as even moderate consumption can worsen the pain and inflammation.
Refined carbohydrates and Omega 6 foods
The body converts carbohydrates into fuel for all vital functions. However, it is necessary to avoid refined carbohydrates. These foods have a high glycemic index that triggers sudden spikes in blood sugar levels upon consumption. Avoid crackers, bread rolls, instant mashed potatoes, French fries, and even some breakfast cereals. Also, the body needs to maintain a balance between healthy omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Excess consumption can trigger an inflammatory response.
Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in common food grains like wheat, barley, and rye. It is one of the risk factors linked to joint pain experienced by people who already have celiac disease. A gluten intolerance can lower the pain sensitivity threshold and can cause inflammation.
Apremilast Otezla® pro arthritis treatment
Otezla® is an FDA approved alternative to injections and biologics suggested for psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It works by inhibiting certain PDE4 proteins that trigger inflammatory responses in arthritis. One can avail pharmacy discounts with Otezla® manufacturer coupons available online.
