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- Suffering From Arthritis? Doctors Say To Avoid These 3 Inflammatory Foods Because They Can ‘Worsen’ Symptoms: Processed Meats, More (shefinds.com)
Arthritis sufferers know the struggle: inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. While treatments exist, diet plays a crucial role in managing symptoms.
Dr. Jeffrey Peng recently highlighted three food categories to avoid for arthritis relief.
Processed and Fried Foods: A Recipe for Inflammation
These tempting treats are loaded with unhealthy fats, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates, contributing to weight gain and inflammation, exacerbating arthritis symptoms. Sugary cereals, frozen pizzas, packaged snacks, and instant noodles are common culprits.
Fried foods, cooked in unhealthy oils, also trigger inflammation, increasing joint pain. Dr.
Peng recommends opting for whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins for essential nutrients without the inflammatory effects.
Sugar and High Glycemic Index Foods: A Sweet Trap
The modern American diet is awash in refined sugar. While enjoyable, excess sugar triggers inflammatory responses, worsening arthritis symptoms.
White bread, white rice, potatoes, sugary cereals, candies, cookies, and cakes are among the foods to limit. Dr.
Peng cited a study linking higher blood glucose levels to worse knee arthritis symptoms over a year. Being mindful of sugar intake and checking food labels can help manage arthritis and overall health.
Processed Meats: More Than Just a Guilty Pleasure
Sausages, hot dogs, deli meats, and bacon, while convenient, are problematic for arthritis sufferers. Dr.
Peng explains that these meats promote inflammation and worsen symptoms. Research links processed meat consumption to increased inflammation and a higher risk of heart disease and colorectal cancer.
Choosing whole, colorful fruits and vegetables like berries, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, and citrus fruits offers a healthier alternative.