How to Eat Your Way to Fewer Arthritis Symptoms

Eating the wrong foods can sabotage your arthritis treatment, and eating the right ones can ease your symptoms and help your treatment work better.

At Advanced Medical Care, we believe in a holistic approach to arthritis treatment, and it all starts with you and what you choose to put on your plate. Our specialists created this guide to help you understand the best dietary practices for the three most common types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

How food affects arthritis 

Before we get into specifics, let’s discuss how diet impacts arthritis. Arthritis is mainly about joint inflammation. The causes and types differ, but the culprit is always inflammation.

The food you eat can either increase or decrease inflammation in your body. Although no diet can cure arthritis, the right foods can help alleviate symptoms.

Though a balanced diet is crucial for everyone, arthritis sufferers need specific nutrients and must avoid others. In general, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can make a significant difference in how you feel.

How to eat for osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it affects millions worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. Even though age and genetics play a role, diet can also influence the progression and symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Anti-inflammatory foods

Eat foods that fight inflammation, such as omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and mackerel. Leafy greens like spinach and kale and fruits like berries also help.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage. Foods like nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate are high in antioxidants and can help reduce joint inflammation.

Glutathione, the master antioxidant, can help. To get more, eat plenty of cruciferous veggies like Brussels sprouts and broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. 

One of the best ways to get more glutathione is through an IV here at Advanced Medical Care. Our specialists identify your glutathione levels and help you maintain a balance by delivering this master antioxidant directly into your bloodstream. 

Limit processed foods

Processed foods are loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats, which can increase inflammation. Cut back on processed snacks, sugary drinks, and fast food to help manage your symptoms.

How to eat for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Believe it or not, your diet can play a role in managing the painful swelling, which can eventually cause joint deformity. Here’s where to focus your diet.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3s are good for rheumatoid arthritis because of their strong anti-inflammatory properties. To help reduce inflammation, eat more fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Fiber-rich foods

Dietary fiber can lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an indicator of inflammation. Get more fiber by eating whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Avoid nightshade vegetables

Some people with rheumatoid arthritis find that nightshade vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, can aggravate their symptoms. 

How to eat for gout

Another common type of arthritis, gout, attacks joints with sudden, severe pain, redness, and tenderness. The main culprit is excess uric acid in the blood, which can form crystals in the joints. A gout diet focuses on reducing uric acid.

Low-purine foods

When your body breaks down purines,  a substance found in certain foods, it becomes uric acid, so foods high in purines, like red meat, organ meats, and some seafood, can trigger gout attacks. 

Water

Drinking plenty of water helps dilute uric acid in your blood and flush it out of your system. 

Limit alcohol

Alcohol, especially beer, is high in purines and can trigger gout attacks.

More help for arthritis

There are more than 100 unique types of arthritis, and they can all benefit from better nutrition. Our experienced physicians can help you develop the best eating plan for your type of arthritis and incorporate IV glutathione therapy to combat oxidative stress.

Call Advanced Medical Care in Queens or Brooklyn, New York, to schedule an appointment or book online.