Generally, arthritis is characterized by joint pains and inflammation. Arthritis is just an umbrella term for a variety of diseases caused by these joint pains and inflammations. The most common of these conditions are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
As a result, it is only natural to turn to painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine. However, due to the adverse effect medication has on some organs of the body, particularly the kidneys, it is also best to adapt a lifestyle change in the form of a dietary plan.
Here are 4 types of food you should avoid or reduce when you are diagnosed with arthritis as these may trigger attacks:
- Fried and processed food
Reducing the amount of fried and processed food that we ingest actually aids in restoring natural defenses of the body, including the immune system’s natural anti-inflammatory properties. Instead, it is recommended to include more fruits and vegetables in one’s diet.
- Food cooked at high temperatures
Food cooked at high temperatures often refer to food that are heated, grilled, fried, or pasteurized. This is due to the toxin advanced glycation end product (AGE) in these foods. AGEs can damage certain proteins in the body and the body responds by utilizing cytokines (inflammatory messengers). AGEs can contribute to inflammation in the body.
- Refined carbohydrates and sugars
AGEs are also found in high amounts of sugars. Among the food you should reduce are candies, processed food, white bread, and baked goods made with white flour.
- Salt and preservatives
Salt itself is not bad, but excessively, it can be harmful, especially when we ingest it from the food we eat. It is best to reduce salt intake and, to do so, one must be diligent in reading the labels and avoiding food that are instant or microwavable as these tend to be high in sodium.
At Caring Nurses Services, a Home Care Agency in Edgewood, MD, we value the food that our patients—your loved ones—eat, too. As a Nurse Staffing Agency, we ensure that our care professionals are mindful of the food our patients eat because we understand that every aspect of life, down to the smallest details, can make, or break somebody’s health condition.
For more information, such as the one displayed above, call us at 410-676-2222. You may also send us an e-mail to caringnursing@yahoo.com.
