Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis that affects nearly 30 percent of people living with psoriasis. When you are living with psoriatic arthritis, you are no stranger to joint pain and stiffness. You may also notice nail changes and fatigue, swollen fingers, and even note that your symptoms seem worse in the morning. You may also experience flare-ups, or other specific times that you notice a worsening of your symptoms. Certain lifestyle choices, like your diet, may help to prevent flare-ups. So, what foods should you gravitate to? What foods should you avoid?
The best foods
The number one rule of thumb is to choose foods that help to reduce inflammation. Foods rich in antioxidants are great options. Some examples are as follows:
Salmon- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon’s anti-inflammatory qualities are a big benefit to those with psoriatic arthritis. Bonus? A psoriatic arthritis diagnosis increases your risk for stroke and heart attack. The American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish, like salmon, at least twice a week to protect against developing heart disease.
Cherries- Tart cherry juice has been shown to have the highest concentration of antioxidants and inflammation fighters according to a study from Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.
Kale- This leafy green is rich in fiber, Vitamins A,K, and C, and also contains an array of flavonoids which have a variety of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
And the worst…
Dairy- Some people with psoriatic arthritis may have an intolerance to milk products due to a lactose deficiency. This can cause major stomach upset after consuming dairy.
Red Meat- Fatty red meat is a catalyst for weight gain. Weight gain promotes inflammation, which is a recipe for disaster for those with psoriatic arthritis.
Sugary Foods- Foods high in sugar, like soda, candy, and even sugary breakfast cereals lead to high insulin levels in the bloodstream. These elevated levels lead to higher levels of inflammation in the body.
Experimenting with different foods may ultimately help you to determine what works best for you and may help you to be better aware of your triggers and to avoid a flare-up. If you or someone you love is struggling to manage psoriatic arthritis symptoms, research studies exploring potential new treatment options are enrolling now. Study participants have access to potential new treatment medications and cared for by board-certified physicians. Qualified participants may also receive compensation for time and travel expenses. To learn more and see how you may qualify, click HERE.
