Do a simple Google search for arthritis and diet, and you will find a plethora of articles, some suggesting that there is no particular foods which help arthritis, to others sprouting the latest tonic or super food that can cure it. So what is actually true?
The first thing to know is that at present, there is no scientific, evidence based diet or food that will cure your arthritis. That said, there are a few things that can be done to help with your pain and symptoms.
Lose 5-10% of your body weight, if overweight. This will reduce the pressure on your joints, and thus assist with pain reduction.
Consume 2.7g omega-3 per day. This equates to 9-14 standard 1000mg fish oil capsules or 5-7 capsules of a fish oil concentrate per day, or 15mL of bottled fish oil or 5-7 mL of concentrated bottled fish oil per day.
Research shows that fish oil is particularly beneficial for iinflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis. Fish oil may also help control symptoms of lupus. Fish oils have not yet been thoroughly tested in other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis.
Many clients find that using an anti-inflammatory diet helps ease their symptoms. This as yet requires further research, however this style of eating is a very healthy way of eating for everyone, so there is no harm it trying it.
Some clients find use of supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin assists with joint pain. Again, this is not 100% supported by evidence, but is not harmful. If you would like to see if they work for you, take the supplements for 3 months, then stop taking them and see if your symptoms differ.
Follow a gluten and/or dairy free diet. It may be worth trying this way of eating, as some people feel that it works well for them.
If you notice a particular food enhances your symptoms, avoid it as much as possible.
It is important to remember, it is all about balance and consuming a variety of healthy foods.
