There are many food myths surrounding arthritis, but some studies suggest certain foods may help to reduce pain and inflammation and slow the progression of arthritis.
Some people say dairy products cause arthritis and that cider vinegar and honey will cure it.
Others believe acidic fruits, such as lemons, oranges and grapefruit, and nightshade vegetables, such as potatoes, aubergines and peppers, can make symptoms worse.
Many people living with arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, also say there is a link between certain foods and the flare-ups they experience.
Healthy, balanced diet
Although there is little evidence to support these claims, some studies suggest certain foods may help reduce the pain and inflammation caused by arthritis and slow down the condition’s progression.
These foods all contribute to a healthy, balanced diet, which will help with your arthritis and also reduce your risk of developing health complications, such as heart disease, osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones) and obesity.
If you are taking steroids over a long period of time you are more likely to develop osteoporosis. To reduce your risk, eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Calcium-rich foods include dairy products (milk, cheese and yoghurt), nuts, seeds and fish, such as sardines or whitebait (particularly if you eat the bones).
Sunlight is our main source of vitamin D but it can also be found in oily fish and fortified foods, such as cereals and margarines.
There is increasing evidence that the Mediterranean diet is good for arthritis as well as a number of other conditions. This diet includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, fish, grains and pulses and a moderate amount of red meat.
Foods rich in omega-3 are believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which may reduce the pain associated with inflamed joints. Omega-3 is found in oily fish, such as sardines, mackerel and salmon.
You should try to eat at least two portions of oily fish a week. Omega-3 is also found in nuts and seeds (particularly linseed or flax seed), and is regularly used to fortify margarines, cereals and bio-live yoghurt drinks.
Certain foods, such as patés, uncooked meats and unpasteurised dairy products can increase the risk of developing food poisoning. If you are taking immunosuppressant medication, you should avoid these foods.
For more dietary advice, see the Arthritis Care website information about eating well.
