Foods to Avoid For Better Joint Health

If joint pain has gotten to a point where it is limiting your ability to move and function as well as you once did, it may be time to re-evaluate your diet. There are foods that have immune-boosting properties. And, there are foods that can cause inflammation. When inflammation becomes chronic, as a result of disease, prolonged poor habits, or poor diet, we can get achy and suffer from joint pain.

Some foods are considered comfort foods. Comfort foods are typically energy-dense, high-fat, and sweet, such as chocolate, ice cream, and French fries. They provide immediate pleasure or may temporarily make us feel better. These foods activate the same brain regions of reward and pleasure that are active in drug addiction. However, an unbalanced diet can lead to joint pain. Here are some foods to avoid or limit if you are concerned about your joint health. Read on to learn about foods that can lead to inflamed joints:

Fried Foods

Deep-fried foods like french fries, or anything breaded or battered, are cooked in oil. The oils used in frying are high in saturated and trans fats which can cause inflammation. These foods are also high in cholesterol. High cholesterol levels are associated with increased joint inflammation. High cholesterol levels are also linked with tendon complications and pain, according to a review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

Processed Meats

Hot dogs, lunch meats, sausages, ham, bacon, and jerky are all considered processed meats. These meats are high in sodium and other preservatives that can lead to inflammation. Heavy meat consumption may increase inflammation in the joints, and cutting back on those foods may help. A survey of more than 1,000 arthritis patients revealed that red meat, sugar, fat, salt, caffeine, and nightshade plants (tomatoes, eggplant) most commonly worsen arthritic conditions.

Salty Foods/High Sodium Levels

Salt can cause cells to attract water, which can aggravate osteoarthritis (OA). Joint swelling is a common symptom of OA. Consuming too much salt can worsen this inflammation. Any foods that are processed and prepackaged often contain high levels of salt. Check the nutritional chart to make sure you are following the FDA guidelines for your recommended daily allowance of sodium. Americans eat on average about 3,400 mg of sodium per day. However, the FDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day.

Sugar and High Fructose Corn Syrup

Beverages like soda and fruit juices have high amounts of sugar and corn syrup. Consuming excess added sugars creates changes in the body such as producing fat cells. Obesity is a contributing factor to chronic inflammation. Many people don’t realize the effects sugar can have on the musculoskeletal system. According to The Arthritis Foundation and many other health studies, there is a link between sugar and inflammation, sometimes referred to as “sugar aches.” Foods with high sugar content can contribute to inflammation not only in the gastrointestinal system, but also in the joints such as knees, shoulders, and ankles. This is due to a biochemical response in the body that is triggered by a high-sugar diet.

Caffeine

Coffee and many soft drinks contain caffeine. There are some mixed results when it comes to caffeine and joint health. Consuming limited amounts of caffeine in moderation can boost your energy and may ease some aches and pain. However, studies suggest that people with joint pain should think twice about their coffee intake. This is because over time caffeine may weaken bones and aggravate the joint pain associated with arthritis.

Alcohol

When it comes to having a drink, moderation is key. Beer, wine, and liquor contain high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates, which we know contribute to inflammatory conditions. Excessive consumption of alcohol can also dehydrate the body and trigger an inflammatory response. For many types of arthritis, alcohol is considered a trigger that makes joint conditions worse. Heavy drinking can cause problems. Also, alcohol can interfere with some medications, with serious health implications. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

What Can You Do For Joint Health?

Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking all can contribute to better joint health. Regularly using a natural dietary supplement that supports a healthy inflammatory response might also be part of your overall joint health routine. Flexcin is an all-natural joint supplement formulated to support everyday joint comfort and to provide nutrients that support cartilage and joint structure.

This post covers what to cut back on. For the other side of the plate — what to add — see our companion post Nature's Ibuprofen: Anti-Inflammatory Foods That Support Joint Comfort.

At Flexcin we have been making all-natural joint care supplements since the year 2000, and thousands of people have made Flexcin part of their joint care routine. We provide a USA made supplement with ingredients chosen to support a healthy inflammatory response and to support cartilage and joint structure. And, we offer it at a no-risk 90-day trial. If you try Flexcin and are unsatisfied with the results after taking it for three months, simply return the empty bottles for a full refund less shipping and handling.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.