Arthritis is common as we age and 50% of the population over 65 years of age will have developed some form of arthritis. It’s a condition we see frequently here at Bradenton Pain & Wellness Center. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) states that 1 in 4 of us will develop hip arthritis and that 2 in 3 people who are obese will develop arthritis in their lifetime.
Some people can have arthritis without discomfort while others may experience a great deal of pain. Even children can develop arthritis and studies show that 1 in 250 children under the age of 18 will develop arthritis. Further the CDC predicts that in 2030, an alarming 65 million people will have received a physician diagnosis of arthritis. Sadly, there is no current cure for arthritis, however there are methods to relieve inflammation associated with this debilitating disease.
One of the most important and easiest protocols you are able to control is diet. Foods to avoid include:
- Refined sugar like those found in pastries, candy, and soda
- MSG found frequently in Chinese food (always ask!)
- Refined carbohydrates like those in white pasta and white bread
- Trans-fats found in packaged foods
- Alcohol
- Red meat
- High dairy fat like cheese
- Fatty acids found in dressings and fried foods
- Salt
- And surprisingly … tomatoes!
You will find that elimination of these foods may have additional health benefits like weight control, better sleep (especially with the elimination of alcohol), and controlling glucose intake.
So, what are the BEST foods to add to your diet? Try:
- Apples cherries, watermelon, grapes, and berries rich in antioxidants
- Fiber and flax found in whole grains
- Carrots, broccoli, red peppers, and spinach
- Ginger, turmeric, and garlic are all used in Chinese and Indian cuisine
- Fatty fish like salmon and trout also help protect the heart
- Beans
- Walnuts (a great source of fiber)
- Green tea is high in nutrients and antioxidants
With a little thought, you’ll find incorporating these “best” foods can be part of your normal diet. Here are some suggestions:
- Berry smoothie with strawberries, raspberries, and banana
- Baked stuffed red peppers, stuffed with ground turkey, wild rice or quinoa, and garlic
- Lemon herb roasted salmon
- Baked chicken crusted with crushed walnuts and turmeric
- Fresh spinach sautéed in garlic and olive oil
- Black bean burgers with sweet potato baked “fries”
- White bean chicken chili
Wow, there are so many options and we’re sure you can think of others. Send us your ideas and we will post them on our Facebook page. While you’re there, give us a “like”!
