Nutrition for Arthritis

Nutrition for arthritis: the effect of diet on symptoms of the disease

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints that can lead to pain, swelling and limited mobility. Arthritis is traditionally treated with medications and physical therapy. However, recent research suggests that changing your diet can have a significant impact on arthritis symptoms.

Scientists have long been interested in the relationship between diet and disease, and arthritis is no exception. One study published in the Lancet journal was conducted by Norwegian scientists and confirmed the importance of diet for arthritis. This study compared two groups of people with rheumatoid arthritis: an experimental group of 27 people and a control group of 26 people.

Participants in the experimental group followed a vegetarian diet consisting of three stages. During the first stage, which lasted from 7 to 9 days, they consumed vegetable infusions, vegetable juices, herbal teas and garlic. In the second phase, which lasted 3.5 months, the diet included only vegetarian foods and completely eliminated meat, eggs, dairy products, citrus fruits, refined sugar, spices, salt and gluten-containing grains. After 4 months, the experimental group began adding one dairy product per day to their diet. The participants followed this diet for a year.

Participants in both groups kept diaries in which they noted their taste preferences and described all their symptoms. The results of the study amazed scientists. Within a month, participants in the experimental group had a noticeable decrease in swelling and inflammation of the joints. They also reported a reduction in periods of morning stiffness and other symptoms that accompany arthritis attacks. Moreover, the overall well-being of the participants in this group improved, they felt healthier and more energetic. Interestingly, these changes were maintained throughout the 13-month study.

In the control group, participants also noted a decrease in pain during the first 4 weeks, but no changes in blood composition occurred. By the end of the study, all symptoms, including pain, increased in the control group.

These results suggest that diet may have a significant impact on arthritis symptoms. However, it should be noted that the vegetarian diet used in the study is only one possible approach to eating for arthritis. Other research also points to the importance of consuming antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to maintain joint health.

General dietary recommendations for arthritis include:

1. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables: They are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

2. Consuming foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish (such as salmon, sardines and cod), nuts, flaxseeds and chia, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce joint pain and inflammation.

3. Eliminating or limiting foods that promote inflammation: Certain foods, such as red meat, processed foods, saturated fats and trans fats, can promote inflammation in the body. Their consumption should be reduced or eliminated from the diet.

4. Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on your joints, so maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the stress and symptoms of arthritis.

5. Control your sugar and refined carbohydrate intake: Research shows that high intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote inflammation in the body. It is recommended to limit the consumption of sweets, carbonated drinks, white bread and other foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates.

However, before changing your diet for arthritis, it is important to consult with your doctor or nutritionist. They will be able to provide personalized recommendations, taking into account the individual characteristics and needs of the body.

Overall, a well-balanced diet based on fresh vegetables, fruits, fish and healthy fats can have a positive impact on arthritis symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with the condition.