Arthritis is a condition wherein a person experiences inflammation of certain joints. Usually, this is accompanied by swelling and sometimes, a change in structure.
There are two basic types of arthritis: rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes one’s joints to swell painfully. Although the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, one reason for its commonness may be a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet.
Osteoarthritis is a condition where joints experience stiffness and extreme pain. This kind of arthritis is usually the result of ageing.
One of the ways that people with arthritis can improve their condition is by changing their eating habits.
Medical experts remain in disagreement in regards to the impact of diet programs on arthritis. Some experts suggest eliminating animals products, any kind of fats and oils, while others recommend removing highly allergenic plant foods such as corn, citrus fruits and wheat from the diet.
The Arthritis Diet follows a low in fat and low in cholesterol meal plan. It is not restrictive and provides a list of healthy foods to consume and those to avoid.
The diet is focused on six important food substances that could help relieve arthritis symptoms.
1) Fruits – The diet recommends fruits, particularly those high in Vitamin C such as peaches, mango, strawberries, black berries, melon and kiwi fruit.
2) Vegetables – The Arthritis Diet plan suggests the dieter to consume large amounts of veggies that are high in Vitamin C and Vitamin A (Beta-carotene). These vegetables include squash, spinach, cabbage, kale, sweet potato, carrots and Brussels sprouts.
3) Nuts and Seeds – Nuts and seeds, which are high in Vitamin E and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are important for a person with arthritis. These essential foods include unsalted nuts, such as brazil nuts, almonds and walnuts, and seeds like pumpkin, sunflower and linseeds.
4) Oily fish – The Arthritis Diet suggests consuming fish that are high in Vitamin E and rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids. This includes mackerel, tuna, herring, trout, sardines and salmon.
5) Grains and Pulses – Not only does this help in arthritis conditions, it is also helps maintain good nutrition. These foods include brown rice, garbanzo beans, chickpeas, lentils and whole wheat bread.
6) Anti-Inflammatory Foods – These food substances, such as garlic, ginger, apples and turmeric, have been studied to prevent swelling.
Although this diet is not specifically designed for weight loss, it will improve health and eating habits of the dieter.
