Arthritis Trigger Foods to Avoid

Joint pain is often caused by arthritis, resulting from the breakdown of cartilage (which cushions and lubricates joints) inside the joint itself. This causes the bones forming the joint to rub together. The joint then becomes inflamed and stiff, making it difficult to move. 

Two types of arthritis affect joints more than others: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis results from normal wear and tear that occurs over multiple years. In some cases, this condition is caused by overuse or an injury to the joint itself. On the other hand, people living with rheumatoid arthritis have an abnormal immune system response to healthy body tissues, including the joints. In either case, arthritis often leads to movement limitations, stiffness and pain.

If you have arthritis, the foods you choose can have a surprising impact on your joint health. You may find some arthritis trigger foods cause pain, stiffness and swelling, while others actually alleviate your symptoms.

There are several common trigger foods to avoid if you have arthritis:

1. Pasta

Wheat products, like pasta, bread, crackers and bagels, may spell trouble for your joints, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis. This is because wheat contains gluten, a protein that can irritate and aggravate arthritic joints. In addition to wheat, barley and rye also contain gluten, so you might need to avoid these as well.

Instead, try polenta, quinoa, or instant brown rice. They are free of gluten while rich in fiber.

2. Butter and Margarine

They are packed with advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. These are substances generated during food processing that can cause stiffness and inflammation. Because cooking with high heat can also generate AGEs, they are also in many roasted, grilled and fried foods.

So, instead, try hummus. It contains a fraction of the AGEs found in butter or margarine, plus it is lower in fat and calories.

3. Hamburgers

A study found that high-fat foods like hamburgers may encourage the growth of unhealthful gut bacteria. This travels through the body to the bones and wears away at cartilage.  Besides, burgers are also loaded with AGEs.

Instead, try a salmon burger. Salmon boasts the same meaty texture as beef but filled with beneficial omega-3 fats, which are shown to decrease arthritis-related aches and stiffness.

4. Tomatoes

Some people with arthritis swear that nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants and peppers, cause their arthritis to flare. This is because they raise levels of uric acid. Elevated uric acid can trigger gout, a form of arthritis that targets the joints of the toes, fingers, wrists, knees and elbows.

Instead, try vegetables such as carrots, squash and Brussels sprouts that may reduce your risk of arthritic knees by 40 percent.

5. Sugary Drinks

One recent study found that people who sipped fructose-filled beverages at least five times a week were three times more likely to battle arthritis than those who chose sugar-free drinks.

Instead, try sparkling water or iced tea sweetened with a splash of orange juice.

In addition, you need to maintain a healthy body weight, which means less pressure on your joints and less discomfort for you.