Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, and millions of people have the condition. According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), new research shows that food may be a more frequent contributor to arthritis than is commonly known. A 1989 survey, "Arthritis: What Works," is cited in which over more than 1,000 arthritis patients revealed the most common foods to worsen arthritis were red meat, sugar, fats, salt, caffeine and nightshade plants. Avoid the following major arthritis food triggers.
Animal Proteins
All animal proteins--including beef, pork, chicken and turkey--are high in saturated fats and low in fiber. Red meat is the worst offender. Animal proteins create an overall acidic condition in the body. In the joints, uric acid accumulates, causing pain and inflammation. If the blood is too acidic from eating animal proteins, the cartilage in the joints may also begin to dissolve.
Dairy Products
All dairy products, including butter, milk, cheese and yogurt, are primary offenders for many people with arthritis. According to the PCRM, the primary reason for this is because of the dairy protein rather than the animal fat. Thus, low-fat milk, for example, is just as much of a problem as whole milk.
Sugar and Salt
Eating sugar of any kind causes increased pain and flare-ups for many people with arthritis. Avoid all processed foods, which often contain hidden sugars, especially cereals, as well as common snack foods such as cookies, candies and baked goods. Salt is one of the worst arthritis triggers and often causes pain and swelling. Avoid using salt at the table and in cooking.
Alcohol and Caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine also increase acidity and deplete the body of important minerals, which can lead to joint deterioration and inflammation. Alcohol is one of the worst substances for depleting potassium in the body and caffeine deplete calcium, as well as other minerals. Avoid all products that contain caffeine, including coffee, tea, chocolate, sodas and energy drinks.
Nightshade Plants
The most common nightshade plants that trigger arthritic pain are eggplant, tomatoes, peppers and white potatoes. These foods contain solanine, a substance that interferes with enzymes in the muscles and may cause pain and discomfort in the surrounding joints.
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