Foods to Avoid If You Have Arthritis

11. Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6 fatty acids are an essential part of a healthy diet. Individuals absolutely should not cut them out of their diet completely. These acids are necessary to allow the cells and body to develop and grow normally. In an ideal diet, an individual's omega-3s and omega-6 acids will be balanced. However, individuals, particularly those with arthritis, should avoid having too much omega-6 in their diet. Excessively consuming this fatty acid can cause the body to produce chemicals that increase inflammation. Many foods contain omega-6 fatty acids, such as many salad dressings, mayonnaise, vegetable oil, peanut oil, soy-based oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and corn oil. Arthritis patients should try not to consume any of these foods or oils in excess.

12. Aspartame

Aspartame is an artificially-produced sweetener that can negatively affect an individual's pain perception. In the past, many rumors have circulated about the effects of aspartame on the body. Many of them, like the rumor aspartame causes epilepsy, are not based on any scientific fact. However, there is research supporting the idea that aspartame may increase pain perception by triggering neurons. This idea has been associated with arthritis. Many diet sodas use aspartame as a no-calorie sweetener. It can sometimes appear in low-calorie or no-calorie mints and gum. Some sugar-free gums use aspartame, but a range of less potentially-harmful low-calorie sweeteners can also be used.