Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. There are different types of arthritis that can affect one or more joints in our body. It is most common in older people, especially those over 65, but unfortunately it can also affect younger people, including teenagers and children, and can cause a lot of pain.
Arthritis usually requires medical attention because you will need medication for it, but beyond that, did you know that following a proper diet can help reduce the suffering that accompanies it? Certain foods are known to cause further inflammation, and if you want to help your situation, you should definitely avoid them.
Getting rid of certain foods may not be the most exciting thing to do, especially because it may mean getting rid of something you really like to eat, but it’s worth it. You’ll definitely realize this when you feel less pain, or even when your doctor minimizes the number of medications you have to take.
So here are the foods you should avoid if you have arthritis.
1. Coffee
This is really bad news considering how many people like to start their day with a cup of coffee. While it is known to have its share of health benefits, coffee has been shown to increase the likelihood of getting rheumatoid arthritis because some of its ingredients trigger the rheumatoid factor. Studies have shown that people who drink four or more cups a day are more at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis than those who do not. Their chances are actually twice as high. If there is the slightest risk factor that could cause arthritis, then you might want to consider starting your morning by drinking tea instead.
2. Tobacco
Unfortunately, it’s hard to quit. Tobacco is simply very addictive no matter what form you use it in. People who smoke this substance have a very high likelihood of developing severe rheumatoid arthritis, so it’s better not to start consuming it if you haven’t already, but if you are using this substance, it might be time to actually quit because you’re not doing yourself any good. Smoking affects how drugs taken for arthritis affect the body. It reduces the effect and even continues to damage your joints, bones and connective tissue.
