Is The Food on Your Plate Causing You More Pain?

You sit down to tuck into your favourite dinner, but could the food on your plate be doing you more harm than good?

Believe it or not there are foods that may well aggravate the symptoms of your arthritis.

While your body needs it, too much of the essential fatty acid omega 6 could cause inflammation and destroy the beneficial omega 3.

Over processed food and oils contain a lot of omega 6 and should be avoided if you want to improve your condition. These include deep fried food and fast foods, sunflower oil, energy bars, mayonnaise and margarines.

You could also find that potatoes, chili peppers and products made from ketchup and dried red pepper flakes have a negative effect on your body, aggravating your symptoms.

Choosing the right food is important for everyone who wants to stay healthy, but for those suffering from arthritis it can prove vital.

It is a good idea to fill your diet with foods that have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Although not every arthritis sufferer will be helped by the same diet, there are certain foods that are known to relieve symptoms.

Most people suffering from arthritis have a lack of naturally occurring sulphur compounds in their bodies leading to problems regenerating cartilage. Grains, meats, fruit, milk and vegetables are all high in sulphur compounds and a good addition to the diet.

Compounds found in turmeric can reduce inflammation and increase joint mobility. The spice has been used for hundreds of years for medical purposes in India.

While additions to your diet can help, supplements can also be of use.

White willow can be found in capsule and tablet form and can have a painkiller effect, while chili pepper cream could give you temporary relief to joint pain.

Most people avoid stinging nettles, although they are becoming increasingly popular as a food because of their high vitamin C content, but nettle cream could reduce inflammation of the joints.

You may find some or none of these foods and supplements have an effect, but having a healthy diet will always have a positive impact on your wellbeing.

FoodPainplate