Although research still needs to be done to examine links between a healthy diet and arthritis, most people agree that a
healthy diet cannot hurt. Since there are nearly 100 different types of arthritis, no single diet is going to suit
everyone’s needs to help with their arthritis. There are, however, basic guidelines to go by that include variety and
moderation. Remember that obesity can be a major factor for certain types of arthritis causing unneeded stress on joints
such as the back and knees.
One thing you should do on your diet is eat a variety of fruit and vegetables. Most people believe that this will help you
overall well being and may help with your arthritis. You should try to limit your intake of sodium and alcohol as well. If
you are overweight you should lower your calorie intake and start exercising, both of which will help with your
arthritis.
There are some links to some of the more common types of arthritis that may benefit you. If you have gout, a buildup of
uric acid crystals, you should increase your intake of liquids and try to avoid foods like liver and sardines which are
high in uric acid. Alcohol consumption should be minimized as much as possible. For osteoarthritis, the most common form of
arthritis, losing weight should be the most important goal of your diet. Since OA effects your joints such as your knees,
any extra weight you have means that your knees will be effected even further. And finally, for rheumatoid arthritis,
reports have shown that fish, high in omega 3 fatty acids, may help with inflammation.
As you can see, diet can play a crucial role in your arthritis treatment. A healthy diet should be combined with medical
treatments to help reduce your arthritis pain and inflammation.
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