Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. It causes inflammation and pain. Specific triggers can increase arthritis pain. Food is one of the triggers that can worsen arthritis pain. The article lists out some of the foods to avoid for arthritis pain.

1. Fatty foods
One of the foods to avoid for osteoarthritis pain is food containing fat. Saturated fat is available in cheese, meat, and butter. Red meat contains saturated fat that can worsen inflammation and increase pain. One of the worst kinds of fats is trans fat. This heightens cholesterol levels and increases inflammation. It is usually found in most snacks and processed foods and must be avoided.

Omega-6 fatty acids are found in plant oils like sunflower oil, corn oil, and vegetable oil. These are good to consume in moderation. But if used in excess, it can increase inflammation.

2. Sodium in diet
Sodium in salt can trigger the symptoms of arthritis. Excess sodium in the body can cause fluid buildup and can be bad for the kidneys. It can increase blood pressure and worsen inflammation. Arthritis patients must limit salt consumption. They must not take more than 1500 mg of sodium per day from all sources.

Extra salt on food must be avoided. Salt is found in snacks and processed foods, and these foods must be avoided or eaten in moderation.

3. Sugar
Sugar is another substance that can worsen inflammation. Studies have established a link between sugar and increased arthritic pain. Besides adding sugar to food, it is important to avoid or limit foods and drinks with excess sugar.

Beverages and even fruit juices with sugar can be a problem. Desserts like pastries, cakes, candies, and chocolates can increase the symptoms of arthritis.

4. Dairy products
Dairy products like cheese, butter, and margarine contain a high level of saturated fat. Even milk contains fat, which may aggravate arthritis symptoms. Dairy products also have a substance known as AGE or advanced glycation end products. They increase inflammation in a significant way and hence must be avoided.

The alternative is to use low-fat milk products. These are safe to consume.

5. Refined carbohydrates
The body needs carbohydrates. But refined carbohydrates like white flour are not suitable for the body. These products can cause an increase in blood sugar levels. This causes inflammation all over the body. It can be particularly bad for those with arthritis.

White rice, white bread, pasta, and crackers contain refined carbs and must be avoided. The alternative is to use whole wheat products that are beneficial for health.

6. Nightshade vegetables
Nightshade vegetables are those that contain a substance called solanine. It is believed that consuming these vegetables can worsen inflammation and increase the symptoms of arthritis patients.

Vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers can be left out for a few weeks from the diet and then re-introduced to see if they worsen symptoms. This can help to decide if these vegetables are safe to eat.