Foods That Make Arthritis Worse

We have all heard that Omega-6 Fatty Acids like omega-3 and omega -9 fatty acids, are extremely important when trying to maintain good health. While some of these are important in helping to reduce inflammation, others can have the opposite effect often increasing inflammation and making arthritis worse.

Published medical reports explain it like this. A substance known as arachidonic acid (which is found in the omega-6 family) produces compounds called eicosanoids. This particular compound can increase such negative symptoms as inflammation, blood pressure, and allergic reactions. It is advised to stay away from foods that are high in this particular compound. Those foods include, mayonnaise, cottonseed, soybean and corn oils. These all fall into the classification of saturated and trans fats.

It is well noted that some fats reduce inflammations, but it is also well known that the bad fats (saturated and trans) can increase inflammation. These fats are often referred to as "bad" fats because of the fact that these substances are a major cause of weight gain and obesity. Which in turn puts an extra strain on joints over time. Wondering where else you may be able to find both trans and saturated fats? They can be found in most foods that are fried or pre packaged, as well as most fast food too. Foods that include milk products like butter and cheese, high fat cuts of meat like beef and pork, and substances like margarine also contain these bad fats that should be avoided as well.

Surprisingly enough, even a certain vegetable should be avoided as well when dealing with the worsening symptoms of arthritis. Nightshade vegetables have long been at the top of the list of foods suspected to worsen arthritis symptoms. One-in-three arthritis sufferers reacts negatively to nightshade vegetables. Particularly in these vegetables there is a compound that can disrupt enzymes in muscles. This enzyme is thought to be responsible for the negative effects that nightshade vegetables have on this debilitating disease.

Those vegetables that are classified as nightshade include eggplant, tomato, potato and even tobacco. Even though these vegetables are said to worsen symptoms of arthritis, they still do have valuable nutrients and should not be avoided completely unless there is an allergic reaction to the vegetable or other food product. Food Allergens should also be avoided. Food allergens are defined as proteins in certain foods that set off complex immune reactions when ingested.

The list of potential food allergens is endless, but some of the most common include eggs, wheat, milk and soy. If you are ingesting foods that you may be sensitive too can cause problems. Especially for arthritis patients, and those with rheumatoid arthritis. ArthritisToday.org a leader in informing others about arthritis, describes this as due to the fact that the intestinal fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis often contains greater levels of antibodies than those without the disease.

These antibodies then begin to accumulate in joints. Due to this, inflammation and pain begin to increase. Maintaining a healthy weight is an important prevention method for arthritis patients, as excess weight causes unnecessary strain on joints. Practicing a diet high in fiber and remembering to consume healthy carbohydrates, fats and proteins can help prevent obesity. Couple this with daily exercise as the best prevention/solution method too. Remember as a arthritis patient to avoid high-impact exercise like running. Choose gentler workouts like swimming, yoga and weight-bearing exercise.
If you believe food allergies or sensitivities are suspected, contact your physician for a simple blood test that can pinpoint problems. Once you know what food allergies you are dealing with, a nutritionist can help. They will be able to give you a well-balanced diet that focuses on fighting inflammation and reducing pain.