Yes, we are what we eat, and our diet has a tremendous effect on our health. In the case of arthritis sufferers, pain relief diets can offer dramatic improvements especially when used in conjunction with traditional medications. Basically, there are two areas to consider when putting together an arthritis pain relief diet: the foods that help and the foods that hurt.

Foods That Will Help You

First, it should be noted that arthritis pain relief diets are more of a menu than a strict course to follow. Consider these diets to be guidelines that will steer you in the direction of better nutrition. In many cases, arthritis sufferers are encouraged to lose weight to relieve added stress on the joints, and an arthritis pain relief diet may help in this area, simply by pointing out more appropriate food choices. However, the foods that we will discuss here are those that have been shown to improve health and to specifically minimize the effects of arthritis.

Vegetables and fruit are high on the list of a sensible arthritis pain relief diet. Foods high in vitamins A and C have the ability to reduce pain by increasing overall health and well being. Broccoli, spinach, kale, carrots and sweet potatoes are rich in these vitamins and can be served in a variety of ways. Take care not to overcook these vegetables and thereby lose some of their nutritional benefits. Most fruits are good sources of vitamin C but some contain more than others do. Cantaloupe, peaches, blackberries and mangoes have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain by getting to the root of the problem. Fish and whole grain foods are also recommended on an arthritis pain relief diet, and they offer additional benefits like lowering cholesterol and regulating the digestive tract. Nuts and seeds are rich in vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids and should be part of this diet as well. Walnuts have many favorable properties and a two-ounce serving can be easily included with meals or as a snack. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are tasty treats that are also good for you. Certain foods like apple, garlic and ginger can actually reduce the swelling in the joints and therefore should be a big part of any arthritis pain relief diet.

Foods To Avoid

No one wants to read a long list of foods to avoid because it seems to take the fun out of eating! However, there are some very basic guidelines that may help to reduce your arthritis symptoms. Red meat, dairy products and sugar have been shown to increase the pain associated with arthritis. Coffee, soda, and caffeine containing drinks are not recommended. To determine which foods you should eliminate, or reduce from your diet, keep a journal detailing your daily menu and a few notes about the level of discomfort you feel each day. Your own body may be the best source to find out which foods to avoid.