Can My Diet Affect Medication
Its important that you take any medication youve been given as youve been told to by your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
Some drugs need to be taken in a specific way, such as before or after food, or with water you should be told about this, but the information leaflet included with your medication will also explain this, so make sure to read this carefully.
Taking certain drugs with food or after youve eaten can help to reduce the risk of certain side effects such as indigestion, stomach ulcers, feeling sick or vomiting. It can also help your body to absorb the drug properly and can make sure its not washed away by food or drink, for example if you use mouthwashes or gels.
To Prevent Osteoarthritis Add More Olive Oil To Your Diet
When it comes to arthritis-proofing your diet, extra-virgin olive oil is an excellent choice. It’s full of monounsaturated fatty acids, which, according to a study published in 2018 in Arthritis Care & Research, help reduce the loss of joint space over time in arthritic knees. Olive oil is also high in anti-inflammatory plant compounds that may reduce inflammation and slow or prevent osteoarthritis.
In a 2013 study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, researchers explained that lubricin is a substance produced in joints that helps lubricate and protect cartilage. When a joint is injured or repeatedly stressed, the body releases immune molecules called cytokines. Cytokines are inflammatory and suppress the production of lubricin. The researchers found that olive oil, in combination with physical activity, helped reduce cytokine levels and increase lubricin levels in rats with injured knees. They concluded that eating a diet rich in olive oil could prevent osteoarthritis in humans by safeguarding cartilage from inflammation.
In addition to fighting osteoarthritis, olive oil may reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer .
Salmon Tuna Sardines And Mackerel
These fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which studies have found can decrease inflammation. According to the Arthritis Foundation, eating a 3 to 4 ounce serving of these fish two or more times a week is recommended for protecting the heart and reducing inflammation.
While fresh fish can get pricey quickly, one tip to make it more affordable is by looking in the freezer section or buying canned sardines, salmon or tuna. Be sure to choose lower sodium options when purchasing canned items if you need to keep your sodium in check.
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Who Is Most At Risk For Developing Osteoarthritis
Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder with an unknown etiology, osteoarthritis is far better understood. According to most physicians, scientists, and researchers, the following factors can significantly increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis:
Age According to a study published by the CDC , doctor-diagnosed arthritis, which includes osteoarthritis, is highest among individuals who are age 65 and over.
Gender While there is no scientific data that clearly explains why there is a disparity, multiple studies have found that women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis.
Obesity Not surprisingly, being overweight or obese can place a tremendous amount of strain on weight-bearing joints, causing them to become worn that much faster. That said, the more you weigh, the more likely you are to develop osteoarthritis that affects the knees, hips, and feet.
Genetics For 35 to 65 percent of the U.S. population, osteoarthritis is caused by 1 of 9 genes that are associated with the disease, according to a study published by ScienceDaily, an online resource that provides information related to science, health, the environment, and technology.
What Exactly Is Arthritis
Arthritis, or joint inflammation, describes swelling and tenderness of one or more of the joints. Its main symptoms include joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Arthritis is a general term for a group of over 100 diseases causing inflammation and swelling in and around the joints.
Joint inflammation is a natural response of the body to a disease or injury, but becomes arthritis when the inflammation persists in the absence of joint injury or infection. Arthritis usually worsens with age and may even lead to a loss of joint movement.
There are different types of arthritis such as:
- Warm skin over the joints
- Redness of the skin over the joints
- Reduced range of movement.
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What Is The Arthritis Diet
For people with arthritis, following an anti-inflammatory diet may help with managing symptoms such as pain and swelling. Many of these foods are found in the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruit, vegetables, beans, fish, and healthy fats such as olive oil, notesDeborah McInerney, clinical nutritionist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.
Those with rheumatoid arthritis have an increased risk of heart disease because they experience systemic, or body-wide, inflammation. Therefore, a heart-healthy diet can help manage arthritis symptoms and lower the risk of developing other chronic illnesses such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, says Hinkley.
People with obesity are at increased risk of developing osteoarthritis because carrying extra weight puts more strain on the joints, especially those in the lower body, Hinkley adds. Due to that elevated risk, those with osteoarthritis often benefit from following a heart-healthy diet due to its ability to help with weight loss.
Broccoli Could Slow Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is considered a “wear and tear” condition. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in a joint wears away, causing bones to rub against one another, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. This can happen simply as a result of getting older or because of injuries or repeated stress on the joint. Women, heavier individuals, and people with certain genetic factors are also more likely to get osteoarthritis. While any joint can be affected, the knees, hips, spine, and hands are most vulnerable to cartilage damage .
According to a 2013 article published in Science Direct, research suggests that sulforaphane, a compound released when eating broccoli, can slow down the destruction of cartilage in joints. Sulforaphane is present in other cruciferous vegetables as well, including Brussels sprouts and cabbage, but is particularly concentrated in broccoli. This compound “blocks the enzymes that cause joint destruction by stopping a key molecule known to cause inflammation.” Although these effects were demonstrated in both laboratory-grown tissues and in mice, the results are promising for humans.
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Clinical Contributors To This Story
Halyna Kuzyshyn, M.D. contributes to topics such as Arthritis, Men’s Health, Women’s Health.
Roughly 54 million adults have been doctor-diagnosed with arthritis and according to the Arthritis Foundation, the number of people battling this disease by 2040 is projected to soar to over 78 million.
Arthritis is a general term that encompasses conditions of joint pain and functional limitations. Symptoms of joint swelling, pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion mark the illness.
There are many different types of arthritis, divided into two main categories: inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The most common form of non-inflammatory arthritis is osteoarthritis, while the most common inflammatory arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory illness that occurs when joints and other tissues are mistakenly attacked by the immune system. Halyna Kuzyshyn, M.D., board certified in rheumatology and internal medicine, explains that if the tissue remains inflamed it can lead to the loosening of tendons and ligaments while also destructing joints with cartilage damage, bone erosion, and loss of function.
While there is no concrete research on diets that can treat rheumatoid arthritis, researchers have identified certain pro-inflammatory foods. Dr. Kuzyshyn advises that the following six foods should be avoided or at least limited to help reduce inflammation and joint pain:
The 10 Best Foods To Eat If You Have Arthritis
If you have arthritis, you know just how devastating this condition can be.
Arthritis is a term for a class of diseases that cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds.
There are many different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is one type, which develops in joints with overuse. Another type is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your joints (
Fortunately, there are many foods that can ease inflammation and may help relieve some of the joint pain associated with arthritis.
In fact, one survey found that 24% of those with rheumatoid arthritis reported that their diet had an impact on the severity of their symptoms (
This article will look at 10 of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis.
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Steer Clear Of Organ Meats To Avoid Gout Flare
If you’re an adventurous eater who’s prone to gout, you’ll probably want to steer clear of organ meats. Most organ meats are considered high-purine foods. A 100-gram serving of calf’s liver, for instance, contains enough purines to produce 460 milligrams of uric acid, while the thymus gland of a calf has a staggering 1,260 milligrams .
In general, livers and spleens of different animals top the list of purine-containing foods. But a number of other organs are considered moderately high in purines. These include chicken livers, calf and pig kidneys, and calf and ox lungs. If you struggle with gout but don’t want to give up organ meat, try cervelle de veau , which contains fewer than 100 milligrams of uric acid per 100-gram serving and is considered low in purines, per Elevated Health.
While it may be hard to find and even harder to convince yourself to try, this organ meat is quite nutritious. According to Medical News Today, they contain omega-3 fats and nutrients known as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine, which play an important role in the health of the nervous system.
Foods To Avoid With Ra
Red meat and dairy
Theyâre our main sources of saturated fats, which can cause inflammation in fat tissue. Other sources include full-fat dairy products, pasta dishes, and grain-based desserts.
Corn oil
The culprit here is omega-6 fatty acids. You want to cut down on them while youâre going for more omega-3s. They can lead to weight gain and joint inflammation if you overdo it. Sunflower, safflower, soy, and vegetable oils are also sources.
Fried food, fast food, and processed foods
Theyâre the major source of trans fats, which are created when hydrogen is added to vegetable oil to extend shelf life. They can trigger inflammation throughout your body. Plus, they raise bad cholesterol and lower the good type.
Salt
Not only is too much salt bad for your blood pressure, but if you have RA and take steroids, your body may hold on to it more easily. Aim for less than 1,500 milligrams a day.
It tells your body to release chemicals called cytokines that kick-start the inflammation process. Check food labels for words that end in âose,â like fructose or sucrose.
Alcohol
It doesnât mix well with your RA meds. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers on their own. Those odds go up when you add alcohol.
If you drink while youâre taking acetaminophen, leflunomide , or methotrexate, it could damage your liver.
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If You Have Gout Avoid Certain Kinds Of Seafood
According to the Mayo Clinic, gout is a type of arthritis marked by sudden and severe pain in a particular joint, often the big toe. Gout is caused by “needlelike” urate crystals that form in joints or the surrounding tissue. Urate crystals are made of uric acid, a byproduct of breaking down substances called purines, found in varying amounts within a number of foods. Uric acid can build up and create urate crystals in people who produce too much uric acid or whose kidneys have a hard time getting rid of the uric acid.
Certain foods, including some types of seafood, are particularly high in purines. According to Elevated Health, a family medicine clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, sardines in oil contain enough purines to produce 480 milligrams of uric acid per 100-gram serving. Smoked sprat is an even bigger offender, producing 804 milligrams of uric acid per 100-gram serving.
Many other fish are considered moderately high in purines, producing between 100 too 400 milligrams of uric acid per 100-gram serving. These include redfish, anchovies, and trout. Lobster, shrimp, mussels, and scallops are also moderately high in purines.
What Is The Best Diet For Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that attacks where tendons and ligaments connect to the bone, causing inflammation in the joints. For the same reasons, eating a healthful dietwhich is also low calorie if weight loss is neededis a smart part of an overall management plan, OKoon adds.
Just as with RA there is a risk of heart disease with PsA, however, the risk nearly doubles if you have a PsA diagnosis. Again, this is why people with PsA should follow the same guidelines for other types of arthritis. In this case, eating foods that are heart healthysuch as berries, nuts and leafy, green vegetablesshould be a focus.
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If You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis Keep Your Salt Intake Down
Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of joint disease that can leave people feeling stiff and achy. RA is an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system mistakenly begins attacking the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints.
As the Mayo Clinic explained, “The resulting inflammation thickens the synovium, which can eventually destroy the cartilage and bone within the joint. The tendons and ligaments that hold the joint together weaken and stretch. Gradually, the joint loses its shape and alignment.” The condition can also damage other parts of the body, such as the skin, lungs, and heart.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, people with RA may be more sensitive to the negative health effects of sodium, like high blood pressure. Corticosteroids, medications often used to manage RA, can cause the body to hold on to sodium. Because of this, those with RA are cautioned to keep their daily sodium intake below 1,500 milligrams. For comparison, the general suggestion for adults in the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium. The average American, however, eats more than 3,400 milligrams daily .
What About The Mediterranean Diet
Studies have suggested that the Mediterranean diet can reduce the inflammation that contributes to the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
As well as helping to reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis, eating a Mediterranean-style diet offers many other health benefits, including weight loss.
Following a Mediterranean diet may also reduce the risk of:
When someone is living with osteoarthritis, their body is in an inflammatory state.
While foods with anti-inflammatory properties may reduce symptoms, some foods contain substances that actively contribute to this inflammation. It is best to avoid or restrict these dietary choices.
The types of food to avoid are those that include the following:
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Cleanses Usually Emphasize Healthy Foods
Some cleanse diets operate very similarly to detox diets and involve strict dietary modifications and supplements others are less rigid.
Generally, cleanses focus on eliminating unhealthy or highly allergenic foods while replacing them with nutrient-dense, whole foods to support overall health.
Weight loss is a common goal of cleanse dieting, but cleanses may also be used to treat various digestive issues or food cravings.
Foods frequently eliminated as part of a cleanse diet are:
- Sugar
- Gluten
Summary
Cleanse and detox diets are difficult to differentiate, as neither is clearly defined. Though theyre quite similar, detox diets typically aim to eliminate harmful substances from the body while cleanses aim to reduce weight and food cravings.
The variety of weight loss cleanses is immense. If you google the subject, youll find an abundance of cleanses and their associated products.
This overwhelming number is likely due to the lack of a standardized definition.
Here are some examples of popular weight loss cleanses:
As you can see from these few examples, weight loss cleanses can vary greatly in terms of restrictions, duration and necessary ingredients.
Summary
Weight loss cleanses show great variation in terms of duration, restrictions, supplements and foods. For example, some are restricted to liquid foods while others eliminate certain food groups.
Despite limited research on cleanses, theyre most comparable to short-term, very-low-calorie diets .
Who Gets Arthritis In Their Hands
You are more likely to get arthritis in your hands if:
- Youre older. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen after age 50. Rheumatoid arthritis typically first appears between the age of 35 and 50.
- Youre a woman.
- Youre white.
- Youre overweight.
- Youve had previous injuries to your hand. If youve dislocated or broken any joints in your hands or fingers, you are more likely to develop arthritis.
- You’ve inherited genes that cause the development of arthritis.
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Take Vitamin D Supplements
If all else fails then take an over the counter supplement. Most daily vitamin capsules contain a days recommended dosage of vitamin D. There are also supplements that contain much higher doses of vitamin D too.
Ask your doctor about these before you take them to see if they are safe for you to use.
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, this low vitamin D level and arthritis connection is certainly worth keeping an eye on. Millions of people around the world suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and there will surely be new studies results coming out in the very near future.
Here are some suggestions:
- Cod Liver Oil
- Oily Fish