Arthritis and Your Diet

Arthritis is an aggravating condition that affects the body's joints and muscles. If you suffer from some form of arthritis (there are over 100 different types of arthritis), you may be surprised to learn that you can find some relief from your symptoms and increase your health simply by changing the way you eat. Although there is no miracle food that will relieve you of all your symptoms, certainly you can enjoy better overall health simply by avoiding certain foods and augmenting your diet for a nutrient rich diet.

Arthritis patients are advised to follow these general guidelines. They should avoid any form of fad or crash diet. These diets are generally lacking in nutrients, which are crucial for maintaining healthy joints and muscles. Nutritionists recommend that arthritis patients also remain well hydrated by consuming plenty of non-alcoholic drinks each day. It is also important that arthritis patients strive to eat a healthy, well balanced diet that is rich in plant-based foods. Also, arthritis patients should consider supplementing their diets with calcium supplements to reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis later in life.

Another important consideration has to do with maintaining a healthy weight. This is particularly important for arthritis patients because extra weight can place excessive weight on the body's joints and muscles, exacerbating the symptoms of arthritis.

If necessary, a weight loss plan may be prescribed for alleviating the symptoms of arthritis. If you have some form of arthritis, seek advice from your doctor before beginning a weight loss plan. Your doctor or occupational therapist may be able to recommend physical activities that are low impact and fun to do. Many arthritis patients find that water exercises are ideal since they provide a good workout without damaging fragile muscles or exacerbating joint stiffness and pain.

Yoga is another good low impact activity that can help you stay toned and increase your flexibility. Another good low impact diet activity that can help you stay healthy and maintain a normal weight is walking. Taking up a regular walking routine is a good way to stay within a normal weight limit, stay flexible, and stay healthy.

As for supplements that may help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, several studies have determined that augmenting one's diet with fish oils can be beneficial. Indeed, several studies have reported that fish oils can help reduce the amount of inflammation experienced by arthritis patients. It appears that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are beneficial. Scientists believe that fish oils are effective at reducing inflammation because they help reduce the number of molecules that are responsible for creating inflammation in the joints. Fish oils with omega-3 fatty acids appear to be the most beneficial in patients with inflammation-based arthritic symptoms.

Two such forms of arthritis that are characterized by inflammation are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, several studies have shown that the benefits of consuming fish oils extend beyond arthritis. They also have beneficial effects on the heart, prostate cancer, asthma, and a range of other conditions.