Home : Health : Foods To Avoid And Eat With Psoriatic Arthritis

Foods to Avoid and Eat With Psoriatic Arthritis

Foods to Avoid and Eat With Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disorder that causes morning joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. This discomfort is associated with psoriasis or a family history of the condition. Both psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis are autoimmune conditions that affect the immune system. Adding nutritious food to one’s meal plans and following a prescribed treatment regimen may help in managing the condition. Here are some foods to avoid and eat along with certain treatments for managing psoriatic arthritis.

Foods to avoid
The following foods can trigger psoriatic arthritis due to the components found in them and must be avoided.

Red meat
Red meat, such as beef, pork, lamb, and veal, is high in saturated fatty acids. These fats are linked to various inflammatory conditions, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Red meat also contains heme, which binds oxygen in the blood and gives it its red color. Heme has been linked to gut irritation and systemic inflammation.

Dairy products
Milk, yogurt, and cheese are low-fat dairy products that can be healthy when consumed in moderation. However, patients who are lactose intolerant may experience discomfort and worsened symptoms. Saturated fats are abundant in high-fat dairy products like whole milk, full-fat cheese, and ice cream. These may result in an increase in body mass, which may worsen one’s symptoms.

Sugary food and drinks
Sugar is a common ingredient in highly processed foods and beverages. Excess sugar consumption has been linked to metabolic syndrome, heart problems, stroke, and diabetes. Such conditions can aggravate painful symptoms. Sugar can produce many pro-inflammatory cytokines. High levels of these cytokines and low levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines may cause increased inflammation, which may exacerbate one’s symptoms.

Eggplant
Nightshade plants such as paprika, tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplant peppers have been linked to psoriatic arthritis symptoms. They are high in solanine, an alkaloid that (in large quantities) can cause inflammation and be toxic. Some people may be intolerant of or allergic to nightshades, resulting in mild to severe symptoms, such as skin rashes, digestive problems, or painful muscles and joints.

Processed foods
Prepackaged snacks, candies, soft drinks, fast food, and processed meats have been linked to psoriatic arthritis discomfort and pain. Processed foods are high in saturated fats and sugar, which promote inflammation and worsen the symptoms.

What triggers psoriatic arthritis?
Apart from the foods mentioned above, the following are some common triggers of psoriatic arthritis flare-ups.

  • Skin infections or injuries
  • Certain treatment options
  • Excessive stress
  • Unhealthy food regime
  • Cold weather
  • Sunburn
  • Consistently disturbed sleep cycle

Foods to eat
Although certain foods can trigger and worsen the condition, here are some foods that can help manage it.

Fiber-rich foods
Fruits and vegetables are high in anti-inflammatory vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce the damaging oxidative stress caused by an inflammatory response. Consuming fiber-rich, low-calorie fruits and vegetables can help maintain healthy body mass. Dark berries, dark leafy greens, nuts, dry-ground spices, dark chocolate, tea, and coffee are the best foods for obtaining antioxidants.

Omega-3-rich foods
This component is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce joint pain and redness. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, tuna, and mackerel, help reduce inflammation. Salmon is packed with vitamin D and B12, which are important for inflammation reduction and have been used for psoriasis treatment. Vitamin D also helps reduce the severity of autoimmune conditions. Other omega-3-rich foods include seaweed and algae, hemp seeds, flaxseed oil, walnuts, and edamame.

Whole grains
Whole grains contain more antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains such as white bread, rice, and pasta. They also have anti-inflammatory compounds. Moreover, unprocessed whole grains are higher in minerals and fiber and digest more slowly. This helps avoid insulin spikes and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The best whole-grain foods to eat for managing psoriatic arthritis include oats, brown rice, quinoa, barley, and millet.

Turmeric
Turmeric root has been used for centuries to treat arthritis-related joint pain and inflammation. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. Including turmeric in regular meals, such as a latte or curry stir-fry, may help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.

Ginger
Ginger is a root used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger’s active ingredients, gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone, can help relieve joint discomfort.

Treatment for psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is difficult to treat because it affects the skin and joints. It can be managed using a combination of treatment options prescribed by doctors and complementary therapies such as exercise, massage, and acupuncture. The severity of the condition determines the treatment for each individual. The purpose of the treatment is to stop the progression of the condition, reduce suffering, and protect the skin and joints.

Exercise and physical therapy
Exercise is an important part of the treatment for psoriatic arthritis. It improves one’s overall health, reduces pain and stiffness, and gives them more energy and a better attitude. A recommended fitness regimen for managing the condition includes aerobic exercises, weight training, and stretching. Low-impact, gentle aerobic exercises for painful joints include bike riding, swimming, and walking.

Avoid going to the pool during flares because chlorine can irritate the skin. Before beginning any new exercise program, consult a doctor and proceed with caution. A personal trainer can create a program to increase mobility while reducing pain. An occupational therapist can advise on techniques to make daily tasks less difficult and painful.

Tips for psoriatic arthritis relief

  • Stress may aggravate symptoms and weaken the immune system. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, guided imagery, and massage may help reduce stress.
  • Exercise and eating healthily can help reduce inflammation. Almonds, olive oil, and fatty fish are good for the joints and cardiovascular health. Include lean protein, colorful fruits and vegetables, and whole grains for well-balanced nutrition.
  • Moist heat from a warm bath or a paraffin bath for hands and feet can help ease joint pain.
  • Applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel can help reduce swelling. Alternate between heat and cold or use whichever seems most comfortable.

Popular Reads

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Many individuals mistakenly believe that dementia is a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms related to memory, social abilities, and thinking. These symptoms can be challenging to manage and can impact daily activities. However, healthcare professionals often recommend implementing a healthy meal plan as a way to improve management. If you’re interested in learning about how your food intake can reduce the risk of developing dementia, read on. What is dementia? As previously mentioned, dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are among its most frequent causes in older adults. Other known causes of dementia include damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain, the formation of balloon-like proteins in the brain, and the breakdown of connections and nerve cells in the brain. While memory loss is one of its most recognizable signs, this symptom alone does not mean one has dementia. Most symptoms of this group of health issues can vary depending on the cause. Hence, here are some of the most common signs to look out for. Memory loss Difficulties while communicating Reasoning and problem-solving issues Poor control of movements and coordination Disorientation Confusion What are the foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia? Typically, dementia and Alzheimer’s are known to be caused by a combination of several factors, such as environmental, lifestyle, and genetic. Furthermore, developing issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can contribute to cognitive decline in patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest the consumption of nutrient-rich foods to reduce dementia risk as one grows older. Some of the foods that can be added to one’s meal plan are: Avocados Avocados are one of the most commonly known superfoods, which can provide the brain with the needed energy without a spike in blood sugar levels.
Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Towels with GSMs between 400 and 550 are considered ideal for use after bathing. One should avoid towels below a GSM of 400, as these towels can be thin and rough, causing skin dryness. Moreover, towels made of superior-quality Egyptian or Turkish cotton are extremely soft and perfect for the skin. Soaping the arms and legs excessively While it is important to wash and clean one’s arms and legs, these areas typically do not collect much oil and dust. Hence, scrubbing them excessively can dry out these areas and hamper their natural texture.
15 signs of a weak immune system

15 signs of a weak immune system

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues. High stress levels The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold. Persistent cold Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity. Slow-healing wounds When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process. However, when dealing with a weakened immune system, wounds take longer to heal. This can make one more susceptible to infections as well. Frequent infections Those with a lowered immunity are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin infections. They are also more likely to experience autoimmune disorders, organ inflammation, blood disorders such as anemia, and growth and developmental delays. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, some signs of weak immunity include: – Having more than four ear infections in a year – Developing pneumonia twice within a year – Dealing with chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis in a year Fatigue If one constantly feels tired despite getting enough sleep, it may be a sign of weak immunity.