If You Have Arthritis Avoid These Foods

A person with arthritis needs to be on a strict diet. This is due to the fact that many foods will cause a person's arthritis to increase. Here is a list of foods that should be avoided and why.

The main reason people get arthritis is because they regularly eat tomatoes, eggplant, and potatoes. Do not eat these foods for a month and note whether or not the arthritis is gone. A person should also avoid smoking, artificial colors, salt, and preservatives. Meat may also aggravate arthritis, due to the high uric acid. Some foods that may reduce the arthritis pain are parsley and alfalfa. Try limiting the amount of gluten that is ingested. Gluten seems to cause joints to flare up.

It may seem scary to cut out gluten, since it would affect calcium and phosphorus ratios. If a person tries to eat foods high in phosphorus, it will actually decrease the amount of calcium a body has. Besides gluten, a person should also stay away from dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.

If a person currently has arthritis, please avoid nightshade vegetables, such as potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes. The problem with these vegetables is that they contain solanine. It is known to cause a problem with calcium balance and also headaches. A person must be sure to read all food labels carefully. Some examples in pre-packaged foods are: tomato paste, potato starch, and flakes of pepper. If by chance a person does eat one these foods, the effects may be felt anywhere from 48 hours up to six months.

Fruit should help those suffering from arthritis, but it may actually make it worse. Some examples of fruits to avoid are: lemons, tangerines, grapefruit, and oranges. A person with arthritis should stay away from soft drinks due to the high phosphoric acid content. Say goodbye to coffee as well since it can cause loss of minerals and important nutrients.

Staying clear of certain foods while having arthritis is hard, but it will help reduce the symptoms. Know that it is normal to feel overwhelmed by all the foods you can no longer eat. On the plus side, a person can now try healthy alternatives on a regular basis.