Foods that Can Trigger Joint Pain
The essential idea here is to keep a check on inflammation. Though more and more research needs to be called upon to establish this as a fact in entirety, but largely, inflammation causing food items may worsen or at times trigger joint and muscle pain. Some of the most recent studies express that foods rich in sugar, trans fats, processed ingredients and purines are inversely related to the health of our joints. Blood sugar spikes may up the inflammatory response in the body, thereby inducing pain. Follow the list given below to make smarter dietary choices and manage your joint pain better or keep it at bay."Few items that instantly raise the inflammatory response in the body would include refines sugar, refined flours and carbs, and of course trans fats and saturated fats. People who are overweight are at a higher risk of experiencing joint pain as their joints and bones carry more weight than what they are actually supposed to," said Dr. Ritika Sammadar, Chief Nutritionist at Max Super Specialty, Saket in Delhi.
1. Processed foods
Food items laced with high amount of trans fats and saturated fat may activate inflammatory response in the body. It is advised to limit your intake of fried food items. Red meat and full-fat dairy products may also cause trouble, so consume this under moderation. Hydrogenated trans fats and certain vegetable oils like safflower, sunflower and soybean oil can also cause some joint issues.
2. Sugar
As mentioned above, a spike in sugar levels may also trigger inflammation in the body leading to joint pain. According to American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, sugary beverages, especially sodas may facilitate the release of inflammatory agents called cytokines.
3. Certain veggies
Foods rich in an alkaloid called solanine can cause arthritic pain. Consumption of such food items may lead to calcium deposition in tissues. Moderate your intake of tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant to keep joint pain at bay.
4. Foods rich in purines
Purines are chemical compounds that are broken down into uric acid and is often associated with gout. A diet rich in purines is known to elevate uric acid levels in the body which can in turn trigger gout in some cases. Excess uric acid has the tendency to get deposit in in tissues and joints - this can lead to pain. You must watch your intake of beer, organ meats, sweetbreads, bacon, pork, beef, lamb and meats and seafood in excessive quantity.
"An allergy or intolerance to particular foods could be a contributing factor to joint pain. Pinpointing the culprit foods can be difficult, but common suspects include dairy products, eggs and cereals. Scientific evidence suggests that a diet deficient in antioxidants, particularly vitamins A,C and E and the mineral selenium may also predispose some people to joint problems," The Detox Cookbook and Health Plan by Maggie Pannell.
Other factors
- Excessive body weight
- Lack of exercise
- Previous injury
- Over-exertion on a particular jointGet in touch with a medical expert immediately if you experience any pain in your joints. Get it clinically examined and also consult about the diet that you should follow to keep the condition in control.