How Your Diet Impacts Joint Health

Foods that Can Cause Joint Pain and Inflammation

When Living with an arthritic condition, certain behaviors and lifestyle choices can exacerbate pain-causing inflammation—including the foods you eat. Learn more about which foods can trigger your body’s inflammatory response and in-turn cause your joints to ache.

Sugar

Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can increase the inflammatory response in the body. This is because processed sugars trigger the release of cytokines. When buying packaged foods or premade beverages, be sure to look out for sugar’s many other names, including glucose, fructose, and other ingredients ending in “ose.”

Salt and Other Preservatives

With packaged foods, there are often high amounts of salt and other preservatives to give them a longer shelf-life. Unfortunately, consuming high amounts of salt can cause swelling throughout the body. To monitor your salt intake, avoid pre-made meals and fast food.

Saturated Fats

Studies suggest that consuming saturated fats can cause your fat tissue (adipose) to become inflamed, which can exacerbate joint pain. Some of the most common sources of saturated fats include but are not limited to:

• Cheeses
• Red meats
• Full-fat dairy products

If you do wish to indulge in these types of food, be sure to enjoy them in moderation.

Primary and Specialty Care in Henry County

At Henry County Hospital, we have been providing compassionate healthcare since 1919. When it comes to primary and specialty care, each patient can expect individualized care that meets their needs. From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness.