Foods to Avoid If You Have Arthritis

5. Tobacco

Although tobacco is not a food product, it can be easily ingested and is very common. Studies have shown that smoking can increase the severity of an individual's arthritis. Tobacco can also negatively affect the arthritis medication patients take. This effect makes it harder for the medication to control the inflammation and pain associated with the condition. In particular, rheumatoid arthritis is affected negatively by smoking tobacco products. Ingesting anything with tobacco will increase the likelihood of a symptom flareup, including pain and swelling.

6. Salt

Arthritis medication can sometimes cause the body to retain more sodium. Retaining excessive sodium can have a negative effect on the inflammation associated with arthritis. Salt consumption leads to the bloodstream absorbing more water than normal, almost swelling the bloodstream itself. Due to the expansion of blood vessels, this will cause increased inflammation in some joints. Nearly all canned, frozen, and convenience foods contain a lot more salt than even healthy individuals should be consuming. This means they are crucial for arthritis patients to avoid. Many individuals with arthritis experience increased inflammation and more severe symptoms if they consume a diet high in salt.