For many people who suffer from arthritis, joint pain is just one aspect of the condition.
If you are one of thousands of people living with the condition, you may find that your inability to exercise causes you to put on weight and your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to increase. It can even lead to diabetes.
It is vital that you maintain a healthy diet if you suffer from arthritis, as medication can only ease the symptoms so much.
Putting on too much weight will only make your symptoms worse.
You can try avoiding food which is high in sugar or sweeteners, well known for causing weight gain. These include diet soft drinks, snacks and some breakfast cereal.
Eating fish as part of your diet may seem like a healthy option, but do you know where that fish has come from?
If the fish you are eating is farmed it may contain unhealthy levels of omega 6 – a fatty acid which can increase inflammation if consumed in large quantities. This is because the fish may have been fed on soy pellets.
Omega 6, which your body needs in small amounts, is also found in processed food and oil.
All fast food is best avoided and you should steer clear of refined wheat products such as white bread, cakes, pasta. Instead go for the wholegrain alternative.
Other ingredients to be avoided are sugar carbohydrates found in biscuits, sweets, soft drinks and sports drinks, margarines and mayonnaise, energy bars and crisps.
A lot of vegetarian food is made using soy-based products. As these contain high levels of omega 6, it is best to look at the packet before putting them in your shopping basket.
While diet alone can not cure you of your arthritis it could help you live a life with less pain and fewer flare-ups in your condition.
