Arthritis is a common health condition characterized by chronic joint inflammation and pain. It can make tasks like gripping, holding, bending, and lifting more difficult, even in the early stages. If left untreated, the disorder can progress and become more painful. The good news is that simple food modifications may promote healing, ease pain, and even help prevent the condition from developing. Here are some foods to eliminate from the meal plan for better health.

Salty foods
Although salt is necessary for many bodily processes, too much can increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. So, individuals must avoid high-salt foods like shrimp, canned soup, pizza, cheeses, processed meats, and other processed foods. Instead of salt, one may flavor food with herbs and spices like oregano, ground pepper, cumin, garlic, or onion powder. One should limit their daily salt intake to two grams.

Sugary beverages
Like salt, too much sugar can worsen arthritis and increase its risk of occurrence. It can also lead to inflammation and other long-term ailments. Hence, one should avoid drinks like soda, fruit juices, sweet tea, and other sweetened beverages. Artificial sweeteners or natural sugars, such as adding fresh lime or lemon to plain drinks, can serve as a healthy substitute. Individuals must limit their sugar intake to five to seven teaspoons per day.

Red meat
The high levels of saturated fats in various types of meat, particularly red meat, promote inflammation and raise cholesterol levels. Fried, grilled, broiled, and roasted meat contains high levels of AGEs, which may aggravate joint swelling and harm a person’s health. Individuals may opt for substitutes like chicken, fish, lentils, and nuts instead of red meat. Switching to a plant-based nutrition plan can also reduce symptoms and improve overall health.

High-fat dairy
Dairy products like cheese, milk, butter, and ice cream are high in sugar and fat, both of which can trigger an inflammatory response and increase arthritis risk. Avoiding dairy and switching to plant-based dairy products like soy yogurt and almond milk can help reduce swelling. However, some dairy products like yogurt contain probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, that are good for the stomach and help reduce inflammation. So, it is best to consult a doctor before eliminating any food.

Fried foods
Fried meat and prepared frozen foods may cause arthritis flare-ups. The list includes baked items, prepared dinners, and snacks like French fries and fried doughnuts. These foods contain trans fats, added to help preserve them. Some also contain partially hydrogenated oils that are harmful. Avoiding them can improve the body’s defenses and reduce inflammation.

Canned foods
While canned food is generally not unhealthy, those with a lot of sugar can cause inflammation. So, one should look for fruits preserved in water without added sugar when buying canned fruits. Even better, opt for fresh fruit. Salt is another common preservative in canned goods, including soup, meat, and vegetables. It is advisable to buy products that are either low in sodium or do not have any salt added.

Refined carbohydrates
Most fiber and nutrients are washed away when grains are processed into white flour or rice. What remains is a simple carbohydrate that raises blood sugar and causes inflammation. Refined carbohydrates can be replaced with complex carbohydrates like brown rice, quinoa, and whole grains.