Arthritis collectively refers to several joint pain and diseases that affect various body parts. It is one of the leading causes of disability in the country, with over a hundred different forms of arthritis affecting children and adults of all ages. The condition results in pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility as a result of inflammation. Among the known risk factors, even the foods one consumes can trigger inflammation. So here are the ones to avoid or have in moderation.

Sodium rich foods
Salt is a known trigger ingredient of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Most processed foods and canned goods bought off the shelves in the supermarket are rich in sodium. Studies show that high levels of sodium in the blood can worsen the inflammatory symptoms of RA. Therefore, one must avoid store-bought frozen and packaged meals high in sodium. One must also avoid certain types of processed meats as the curing process may use salts and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that can flare up the symptoms frequently.

Experts recommend no more than 1500 milligrams of salt in one’s daily diet. This includes salt used in everyday cooking, so one must also modify their diet to enable the necessary changes.

Fatty fast foods
Healthy fats are okay as long as they are consumed in moderation. In fact, the body needs a certain amount of healthy fats to supplement vital functions. However, one should eliminate trans, processed, and saturated fats found in most types of processed and preserved foods.

Foods rich in these fats include certain types of breakfast cereals high in refined sugars. One must also avoid eating pizza and French fries, some of the most popular fast food items in the country, and the richest sources of saturated fats. In fact, one must eliminate any fast food that is deep-fried in oils containing omega-6 fatty acids, one of the worst known triggers of inflammation in arthritis.

Sugary foods
Sugar can trigger an inflammatory response, and its consumption should be limited to a bare minimum, in any form. This includes avoiding products like ice cream, a rich combination of sugar and fats, baked goods made with refined sugar and trans fats, and even fruit juices rich in a natural concentrate of sugars. Any amount of refined or natural sugar can trigger an inflammatory response and worsen the symptoms.

Some of the worst foods for arthritis also include canned fruits, candies, and confectionaries that can trigger a major spike in blood sugar levels. People who have rheumatoid arthritis must eliminate sugar at all costs.

Dairy products
People with lactose intolerance should avoid consuming dairy products, especially if they also suffer from mild to moderate arthritis. Milk, for example, is a rich source of calcium and proteins and is an essential staple in the pantry. However, the proteins can trigger inflammation, and it is best to avoid certain types of dairy. One can use unsweetened milk substitutes in place of rich, full-fat dairy. Some of the worst dairy products include cheese, mayonnaise, cream cheese, margarine, and butter.