Arthritis is a common condition that affects over 10 million people in the UK, causing pain and inflammation in the body’s joints. It is most common in older people but can affect people of all ages, making daily activities and life a challenge for many. The treatment courses for arthritis vary and are often difficult to establish. However, one way to potentially improve your joint mobility and ease the symptoms of arthritis is to improve your eating habits. Here we explain how a healthier diet is beneficial to arthritis sufferers.
Getting to a healthy weight
Weight loss tends to be recommended as a key treatment for people suffering from arthritis, in particular the most common kind, Osteoarthritis (OA). Being overweight is a crucial factor in OA since putting added stress onto affected joints is one of the risk factors for developing OA or worsening its symptoms.
Losing weight, therefore, will help to reduce the pressure on these joints, particularly those bearing a lot of weight, such as the hips and knees. To lose weight, it’s advised that arthritis sufferers implement a healthier diet, especially as exercise is a lot harder for those with the condition to do. However, it’s still beneficial for those affected to try and get some exercise, even if this is just a small walk each day.
Dietary supplements that help with arthritis
There are numerous dietary supplements arthritis sufferers can take in order to reduce their symptoms. Many people do this to relieve pain and improve function. Some of these are:
• Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate – which help to improve damaged cartilage
• Vitamin D – which is important for building and maintaining overall bone health
• Turmeric and fish oils – believed to help but not certain as of yet
Although eating healthier may not be a cure for arthritis, it can help manage the symptoms and side effects. Reducing the amount of pain you feel, while strengthening your bones and joints, could ease and reduce any issues caused by the symptoms of arthritis and make managing the condition easier. If you’re looking for an expert rheumatology clinic in London that can provide more insight and advice, visit Dr Stephanie Barrett. Book a consultation today and take the steps to receiving professional treatment.
