The Proper Diet for Arthritis

Arthritis is coming to be considered as an inevitable part of growing old. In the United States, over 40 million people suffer from arthritis - the resulting cost to the US economy is to the tune of over 130 billion dollars, according to studies conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are plenty of factors that can cause arthritis. Genetics is one important factor. Age is another, as is obesity. You can also be affected by any previous injuries that you might have, infections or illnesses. High impact sports can also be a cause for arthritis.

Inflammation and arthritis go together. Inflammation is a sign that your body is trying to cope with injuries of some sort, when cytokines are produced. When too much of cytokines are produced by the body, inflammation is the result. There are certain foods that stimulate the production of cytokines. It follows that eliminating these foods from your diet can help you deal with arthritis much better.

Colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, which are helpful in fighting inflammation. Fruits which are high in vitamin C provide the most benefit for people with arthritis. These include blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi fruit, mango, cantaloupe melon and apples.

Broccoli, cabbage, collard greens, spinach, squash, kale, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes and carrots are all high in vitamins A and C and will help you fight inflammation.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids are the other nutritional components to be included in your daily diet. Fish types including mackerel, sardines, trout, salmon and herring contain Omega-3. Since the fish sold nowadays have high mercury content, it's best to limit your fish intake to 2 to 3 times a week at the most, consisting of 40-ounce portions. Also, you can simply supplement your diet with Omega-3 fatty acid capsules.

Mercury-free fish are probably sold in your local grocery store, so ask your vendor specifically for types available without mercury. Do some research on the internet and try to locate nearby stores selling mercury-free fish.

Fish is not the only source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts and seeds are also a great source of this. However, you have to be careful to stay away from salted nuts and dry roasted nuts. Overdoing it is also a concern - twelve almonds are enough to give you the Omega-3 essential fatty acids you need during the day.

Whole grains are good, while processed foods should be avoided. Lentils should also be a regular part of the diet. Quinoa, also called the Mother of all Grains, amaranth, chick peas, lentils and brown rice are also healthy choices.

Gluten is a component of grains such as wheat, oats, barley and rye. Gluten is known to cause inflammation within the body and many individuals may be allergic to it without even realizing. Studies have shown that wheat and corn can irritate patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac disease.

Other foods known to cause inflammation include milk and dairy products, red meat, dry roasted nuts, sugar, flour, artificial sweeteners, honey, alcohol, tea, coffee, chocolate, nightshade plants (eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, white potatoes, and tobacco), Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), and other food additives.

Article Source: http://menshealthtoday.com

For more about Forms of Treatment for Arthritis visit Arthritis Treatments Today for current articles and discussions.

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