Common Sense Recommendations - Arthritis

Slim down, if necessary

Although obesity does not cause arthritis, it certainly doesn't help painful, inflamed joints in the hips, knees or ankles if they are forced to carry excess weight. Take a load off your joints by slimming down to your ideal body weight. Weight control is important especially when arthritis strikes the lower back and legs.

If arthritic pain comes on unexpectedly, supplement an over-the-counter painkiller with dry heat from a heating pad or moist heat in the form of a hot bath or a hot-water bottle wrapped in a towel. However, do not use heat if you have infectious arthritis.

Eat Carefully.

Certain foods seem to aggravate arthritic conditions. Many experts recommend that you avoid the nightshade family of foods (tomato, white potatoes, eggplant, and peppers), greatly reduce or eliminate dairy products, and stop eating red meat. Try a vegetarian or largely vegetarian diet. If your arthritis tends toward inflammation (not all types get inflamed) and is very painful, avoiding spicy foods and citrus fruits may help.

Strengthen the body with good nutrition

Adopting a healthful diet based on fresh vegetables and fruits, plus whole grains and small amounts of protein and dairy products is a good way to begin strengthening the body. Nutritional supplements are useful for general health and strength. The regimen may include: