Max Drake MNIMH
medical herbalist
medical herbalist
ARTHRITIS
Arthritis, literally, is defined as inflammation of one or more joints, characterised by swelling, warmth, redness of the overlying skin, pain and restriction of movement.
Certain dietary factors can influence joint inflammation and related problems. Some nutrients will improve health and vitality and help slow down the process of degeneration. Other foods have been found to encourage joint inflammation, including allergic responses to foods.
ALLERGIES AND INTOLERANCE
Allergies or intolerance to certain foods can cause or exacerbate joint inflammation.
The Nightshade family- these are tomato, aubergine, peppers, chillies, potato and tobacco. Avoiding these foods helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
Other foods commonly found to worsen arthritic conditions are white flour, cheese, orange, cow's milk, lemon, coffee, soy, grapefruits, strawberries, pork (including bacon, ham, sausages), shellfish, and caffeine,
BODY WEIGHT
Reducing weight can decrease the problems involved with osteoarthritis when more strain is placed on the weight-bearing joints, accelerating wear and tear. You may be advised to follow a weight-loss programme including dietary changes and gentle, regular exercise.
DIETARY FACTORS
Acid/alkaline foods
The concept that acids are bad for the joints and alkalis good is a strong one in folk culture. It is widely understood that the body has to eliminate acid metabolites and that joint problems are a classic outcome of the failure to do this. Many traditional herbal remedies used to treat joint disease are known to increase their elimination. It is therefore recommended that you reduce acidic foods in the diet. NB. This means foods that leave an acidic residue after digestion NOT that taste acidic like citrus and other fruits. The main examples are:
Meat and meat products, processed meats being the worst
Cheese
Eggs
Sugar based products
Sugar based products
Vinegars and pickles
The best source of alkaline foods is fruit and vegetables
Fats and oils have a neutral rating, and fish and grains, legumes, nuts and seeds are mostly acid (due to protein content) but much less so than those foods listed above.
Wine, tea and coffee and other plant-based beverages are generally alkaline when taken without milk
From the advice above a mainly vegetarian or even vegan diet is recommended that includes fish but relies on legumes/beans/nuts/seeds/grains for the source of protein rather than dairy products. There is some support for the suggestion that vegetarians have less likelihood of arthritic disease.
