Arthritis is a complex disease that can come in more than a hundred different forms. Although arthritis is usually regarded as an ‘older person’s disease’ it is not merely relegated to seniors. Those in their adulthood or even teenagers can be arthritic. It is generally defined as ‘painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints.’
Severe arthritis can affect a lot of daily activities such as brushing one’s teeth, driving a motor vehicle or putting clothes on. One in about every four patients describes the pain as a seven or higher (on a 1 to 10 scale, with 10 being the most intolerable pain.)
However, some foods can cause further inflammation whereas other foods can lower and significantly reduce inflammation.
1. Dairy
Almost all dairy products contain a type of slow digesting protein called casein. Casein protein can have the potential to irritate the tissues around the joints. This will then evolve from a joint irritation into a full-blown inflammation.
2. Corn oil
Corn oil should be avoided since any food with abnormally high doses of omega-6 fatty acids can have the potential to cause inflammation. An excess of any oil, such as canola, grapeseed or sunflower, can lead to inflammation. It is easy to overindulge in these omega-6 fatty acids since so many foods contain this compound.
3. Foods that have been fried, grilled, heated or pasteurized
A toxic byproduct, known as advanced glycation end product (or AGE), is found in many fried, grilled, heated or pasteurized foods. It can actually cause inflammation. When these AGE foods are consumed, it elicits an autoimmune response since some proteins in the body are ‘attacked.’ This then causes the onset of arthritic symptoms due to increased inflammation.
When these AGE foods are consumed, it elicits an autoimmune response since some proteins in the body are ‘attacked.’ This then causes the onset of arthritic symptoms due to increased inflammation.
4. Refined carbohydrates
White flour products such as white bread, white potatoes, and most cereals can cause inflammation since they are high on the glycemic index. Furthermore, refined carbs may increase the risk of obesity. Obesity is one of the primary risk factors of arthritis.
5. Alcohol and tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco have been linked to a specific type of arthritis called rheumatoid arthritis.
Even if you do not have arthritis it is important to know what foods can cause inflammation and what foods won’t or can reduce inflammation. Although there is no one food that can objectively reduce inflammation for all people, there are different types of food that can work better (or worse) with your body.