22 Foods to Avoid If You Have Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, often worsening over time. It most commonly affects the knees, fingers, and hips, limiting mobility and impacting daily life. While there are various types of arthritis, the two most prevalent forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Managing this condition often requires a combination of treatments, including medication, topical ointments, and even low-impact exercise like pickleball or swimming to maintain joint flexibility and reduce discomfort. However, one of the most overlooked factors in arthritis management is diet. The foods you eat can either help reduce inflammation or worsen symptoms, making it crucial to be mindful of your choices. Some foods can trigger flare-ups, increase joint pain, and accelerate joint degeneration. Originally, we shared 12 foods to avoid, but as research continues to highlight dietary influences on arthritis, we’ve expanded the list to 22 foods you should steer clear of if you have arthritis. Let’s explore what to cut from your plate to better support joint health and overall well-being.

1. Fried Food

Fried food contains a significant amount of saturated fat, which is a major reason it is unhealthy. Fried food is also highly processed and contains lots of artificial preservatives and salt. All of these increase the severity of arthritis! Individuals who consume a significant amount of fried food are also at an increased risk of obesity. This is vital in connection to arthritis because obesity increases the pressure on joints, particularly the knees and hips. This increased pressure can make the degeneration of the joints much faster! Thus, individuals who have arthritis should avoid eating lots of fried food.