You are what you eat – this is one of the most popular phrases that you must have heard some time in your life. It is the notion that in order to be fit and healthy, you need to consume healthy and nutritious food. On the flip side, there are foods that cause inflammation and joint pain.
Healthy food choices should be a part of everyone's lifestyle and even more so for those suffering from inflammation and joint pain. Some foods are beneficial for inflammation and joint pain, but on the other hand, some actually cause inflammation that can have some severe consequences on the mind and body. There are certain compounds found in some foods that trigger the body to produce chemicals that can cause inflammation and joint pain. If not corrected, inflammation can lead to more severe and chronic health conditions.
For that reason, here are some foods that cause inflammation that you should be aware of and try to avoid, whenever possible.
Avoid These Foods That Cause Inflammation and Joint Pain
Sugar
We know how those tasty pastries and desserts are irresistible to eat. But, processed sugars will trigger cytokines, which are inflammatory messengers in your body that cause inflammation and joint pain. Keep an eye out for ingredients such as fructose, sucrose, or anything that ends with "ose" and avoid consuming them.
It is advisable to limit sugar intake, in general, because too much of that sweet deliciousness is unhealthy for you. If you have joint pain tendencies, for example in your knees, you must avoid processed sugars in items like soft drinks, candy, ice cream, desserts, etc. A 2017 study showed that more than 200 people suffered from inflammation or arthritis due to sugar intake in their food.
Alcohol
Limiting consumption of alcohol is always good for your body, especially if you have inflammatory issues. Some studies show that excess alcohol consumption leads to systematic inflammation as it takes a toll on your normal gut functions. This inflammation can lead to joint pain, as well.
Apart from that, alcohol may also trigger gout attacks, and it can get quite severe. So, under drinks that cause inflammation, alcohol is a definite no-no.
Saturated Fats
There are many studies that have stated that saturated fats activate fat tissue inflammation, also known as adipose. It does not only trigger heart diseases but also makes joint pain and inflammation worse. So, under foods that cause inflammation, you have to put foods like pizza and cheese to the side or at least to a minimum.
Gluten
The United States is full of people who are sensitive to gluten, which is the protein found in certain grains such as wheat and barley. According to studies, gluten-containing foods lead to increased inflammation and joint pain. There are many people who have gone gluten-free, and it has eased their inflammation and joint pain issues. If you are looking to get rid of the same problems, it may be wise for you to change up your nutrition and try a gluten-free diet.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids are one of the most essential components that your body requires for growth and development. But, overconsumption of Omega-6 fatty acids can lead to inflammation. You have to maintain a healthy balance of Omega-6 fatty acids in your diet. If you consume excess Omega-6, then your body will activate pro-inflammatory chemicals.
You will find Omega-6 fatty acids in the following foods:
- Sunflower
- Corn
- Soy
- Peanut
- Mayonnaise
- Safflower
- Some salad dressings
- Fried foods and junk food
MSG
MSG (Mono-Sodium Glutamate) is quite a popular ingredient around the world. It is that magic powder that makes every fast food dish more delicious. You can find this food that causes inflammation in various Asian cuisines, soy sauce, and some fast foods. This chemical activates chronic inflammation and can also negatively affect your liver.
Processed Foods
Processed foods such as cereal, fast food items, ready to eat snacks, etc., are generally high in preservatives, added sugar, refined grains, and mostly inflammatory chemicals, which can cause severe joint pain. Processed foods contain trans fats, which help preserve the food item, but unfortunately, it triggers an inflammatory response and can lead to joint pain. Hence, you must avoid processed foods as much as possible, as it can cause inflammation and other serious diseases as well.
Foods That Helps to Reduce Inflammation
Now that we are aware of foods that cause inflammation, it is time for us to know some foods that fall under the "you can eat" list. Here are some foods that will help you ease inflammation and lessen joint pain through its consumption.
- Fruit
- Salmon, sardines, and other fatty fish
- Almonds and nuts
- Poultry
- Green tea
- Beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes
- Whole grains
- Olive oil, coconut oil, and other healthy fats
- Potatoes and sweet potatoes
- Avocados and olives
Get Proactive to Fight Inflammation and Joint Pain
A well-balanced diet and exercise are all it takes to take good care of your health. The same goes for inflammation and joint pain as well. If you consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods and avoid sugar, gluten, alcohol, and other foods that cause inflammation and joint pain mentioned above, you can more easily live a healthy life while minimizing inflammation and joint pain that can slow you down and decrease your mobility and movement. Try to eliminate the foods that cause inflammation for a month, and you will be amazed at the positive result you can yield.
Attempt to make some changes to your nutrition and implement some of the things mentioned above in this article and see how they make you feel after a week or more. You may be surprised at how much a difference it can make.
If you want to take things to the next level, add NutraBio Extreme Joint Care to your supplement regimen to help promote mobility, renew cartilage, maintain healthy connective tissue, and help revitalize your joints.
Whether you are already suffering from joint pain, or you simply want to get ahead of it, making these changes to your diet can help. To take your improved diet to the next level, NutraBio Extreme Joint Care contains a supporting matrix of clinically validated and patented ingredients to help improve the overall health and function of your joints. Don’t allow inflammation and joint pain to ruin your life or workouts!
