The relationship between nutritional intake and arthritis is complex and poorly understood. This may be because of the over 100 different types of arthritis that have been diagnosed and the multitude of different vitamins and minerals which have an effect on our health. Researchers do know that individuals who have osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, will benefit greatly from achieving a normal weight in order to decrease the stress on the joints. (1)
Scientists and physicians do understand that what we eat will affect the entire body. They know that food is much more than a combination of vitamins, minerals, fat, carbohydrates and proteins. It is also known that foods that contain certain chemicals can increase inflammation or reduce the inflammation in our bodies. For instance, sugar, which is an addictive food that provides no nutrients, reduces the ability of the T. cells to fight infection and alters the immune system. (2)
But the concepts of nutritional intake and treatment of arthritis are much more complex than that. Unfortunately, there is a plethora of information on the market about nutritional intake and osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Most of this information wishes to sell individuals who have arthritis a particular supplement or book that claims to relieve or cure their arthritis.
Some of these claim that by eliminating foods in the nightshades category, such as potatoes, tomatoes and eggplants, individuals will find relief from their arthritis. While this particular type of diet is not harmful, there are no clinical studies that support it and very little case study.
Another dietary change that reportedly helps individuals who have arthritis is an alkaline diet. Proponents of this diet believe that osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are caused by too much acid in the body that is perpetuated by the diet we eat. Proponents of this method exclude sugar, coffee, red meat, most grains and citrus fruits. It is meant to be followed for just 30 days. While there are no studies to support this diet, it might be that individuals feel better because they lose weight, which reduces stress on the joints and eases pain.
References:
(1) The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Role of Body Weight in Osteoarthritis
(2) Mercola.com: This Addictive Commonly Used Food Feeds Cancer Cells, Triggers Weight Gain and Promotes Premature Aging
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/04/20/sugar-dangers.aspx
(3) BioMed Central/Arthritis Research: Gluten Free Vegan Diet May protect Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients from Heart Attack, Stroke, Study Suggests
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080317191445.htm
(4) Journal of the American Dietetic Association: Effectiveness and safety of dietary interventions for rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20430134
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