Quite a few ailments associated with old age can be attributed to inflammation in various parts of the body. Arthritis is one such condition that causes excruciating pain and discomfort to the sufferer. It also limits the mobility of the person and in some cases to such a large extent that he/ she may require the help of a caregiver.

Such diseases caused by inflammation severely restrict the life style of patients, preventing them from performing simple everyday tasks. The right nutrition can help avert such conditions to an extent or provide relief from the pain associated with arthritis. Fatty oils found in cold water fish such as salmon, halibut, sardines are said to reduce inflammation and pain in different types of arthritis. However, there are foods that can cause more harm than good in arthritis. Many food items that we consume as a part of our daily diet have also been seen to exacerbate inflammatory ailments.

Carbohydrates

Simple carbohydrates are quickly converted to sugar in our body. Excess sugar is indicated by high levels of C reactive protein or CRP, which raises the risk of heart attack in addition to increased risk of arthritis. Other ailments like diabetes are also related to high CRP.

Avoiding excessive intake of carbohydrate rich foods and sugar can help reduce these problems. You also reduce the detrimental effects of arthritic inflammation by following a balanced diet, which has just the right amount of carbohydrates and other nutrients.

Cholesterol

Most dairy products and animal products such as meat and eggs contain large quantities of saturated fat. Some oils, such as coconut oil, also have a high content of saturated fat. Excessive ingestion of such fats increases the creation of low density lipoproteins or LDLs. LDL is more commonly called the 'bad cholesterol' and is a primary factor behind inflammation. High cholesterol levels increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Fruits, vegetables, grains etc, are healthy foods that keep cholesterol limits within acceptable range.

Alcohol

The ill effects of excessive alcohol consumption are well known to everyone. While it is permissible to consume alcoholic beverages within a strict limit, overindulgence can prove detrimental. For those suffering from arthritis, excessive alcohol drinking can interfere with arthritis medication and worsen their condition.

Trans Fats

These are fats, which are made by hydrogenating vegetable oil to make a more long lasting fat. Such fat products are solid in nature and are commonly found to be a source of unhealthy foods. Trans fats are not very good for arthritis and can worsen the inflammation. The most common food sources of trans fats are margarine, shortening, canned soups, french fries, cookies, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, doughnuts and other processed, high fat snacks. In any case, the foods containing trans fats are usually unhealthy and best avoided. And if you are suffering from arthritis, you have an additional reason to stay away from them. Stay with natural foods in your diet like fruits and vegetables and avoid high fat processed food to stay healthy.