Arthritis: Four foods that are ‘big inflammation triggers’ – how to avoid joint pain

Rheumatoid Arthritis: NHS on common signs and symptoms

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In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or other similar joint conditions, though signs and symptoms can vary. Unfortunately arthritis can be very painful for some people with the condition, and may impact people of all ages. The NHS explains that living with arthritis can sometimes mean carrying out everyday tasks that can often be painful and difficult. Nonetheless, there are a number of factors that can ease pain.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to slow the condition’s progress and minimise joint inflammation.

Veritas Health states that cheese, butter, cream cheese, margarine, and mayonnaise “are all high in both saturated fats and advanced glycation end products (AGEs)”.

It warns: “They’re big inflammation triggers and should be consumed sparingly.”

Despite this, it notes that a recent study found that some dairy products, “especially fermented dairy products like Greek yogurt”, are anti-inflammatory for people who are not sensitive to cow’s milk.

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Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to slow the condition’s progress and minimise joint inflammation.

Veritas Health states that cheese, butter, cream cheese, margarine, and mayonnaise “are all high in both saturated fats and advanced glycation end products (AGEs)”.

It warns: “They’re big inflammation triggers and should be consumed sparingly.”

Despite this, it notes that a recent study found that some dairy products, “especially fermented dairy products like Greek yogurt”, are anti-inflammatory for people who are not sensitive to cow’s milk.

There is no specific diet that treats arthritis, but some types of food can help reduce inflammation.

Indeed, certain foods found in a Mediterranean diet can provide many nutrients that are good for joint health.

These include fish, nuts and seeds, fruits and vegetables, and olive oil.

You should also try to quit smoking, and avoid taking it up. “Smoking causes stress on connective tissues, which can increase arthritis pain,” says the Mayo Clinic.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions and the symptoms of arthritis can vary from week to week, meaning pain may come and go.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK, affecting around eight million people, while rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 400,000 people.

Rheumatoid arthritis often starts when a person is between 40 and 50 years old, and women are three times more likely to be affected than men.

Though the symptoms you experience will vary depending on the type you have, the NHS notes there are several signs in your joints. These include:

  • Joint pain, tenderness and stiffness
  • Inflammation in and around the joints
  • Restricted movement of the joints
  • Warm red skin over the affected joint
  • Weakness and muscle wasting.

Although arthritis is known for causing joint pain and stiffness, the Arthritis Foundation (AF) explains that certain types of arthritis “can have symptoms not directly related to your joints”.

Some of these may be noticeable on your skin, hair, and nails, and include scaly, itchy skin, rashes, changes to finger and toenails, and hair loss in spots or around the hairline.

You may also find that you are feeling fatigued, have a fever, or have unexplained weight loss.

Indeed, the AF suggests “arthritis symptoms are complicated and varied,” so you should alert your doctor for a range of signs and symptoms.

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