Arthritis is general term that describes more than 100 diseases that cause pain and swelling of joints and connective issue. Arthritis is chronic, lifelong affliction that, at its worst, can make movement difficult or even impossible. Unfortunately, there is no proven cure for arthritis. At best, appropriate treatment programs reduce symptoms. In terms of nutrition, arthritis pain may impair appetite or make it hard to prepare meals, and some arthritis medications may interfere with nutrient absorption. These factors underscore the importance of nutrient-dense diet for arthritis sufferers.

Weight management is important in treating arthritis. Excess weight puts undue pressure on the hips and knees. Weight loss in overweight and obese individuals may reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis, particularly of knee.

People who have rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from adding foods that are high in unsaturated fatty acids, particularly the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed and cold-water fish. There is some evidence that these fatty acids may have beneficial effects on the immune system of people with rheumatoid arthritis, thus helping reduce discomfort.

Among the many kinds of arthritis, goes stands out because of the intensity of its pain. The classic attack occurs in someone who goes to bed feeling well and then awakens in the middle of the night with excruciating pain that has been likened to having someone walk on your eyeballs. This often leads to a visit to the emergency room.

Gout is directly linked to an excess of uric acid in blood. Uric acid, a natural breakdown product of purines (organic compounds) found in all foods and body tissues, is normally dissolved in blood. But excess uric acid can accumulate as microscopic crystals in hand or foot joints, where it leads to painful inflammation, or gouty arthritis. Age-related degenerative osteoarthritis, particular in the big toe, also enhances the risk of gout.

Certain medications, alcohol, overeating, and an unusual increase in exercise can trigger an attack of gout, but often it strikes without warning. After the attack passes, medications can help control uric acid levels. To reduce the risk of future attacks, overweight people should gradually lose weight, cut down on alcohol, and reduce their consumption of foods high in purines, such as organ meats, red meat, shellfish, and beans.