Arthritis is a common illness that causes a person’s joints to swell, leading to mobility problems and recurring pain. Different types of arthritis affect patients differently. Some affect the joints, while others may damage the bones and other body parts. To keep symptoms under control, arthritis patients must avoid certain foods, some of which are listed below.

1. Added sugar
Studies have shown that regular consumption of sugar can aggravate arthritis symptoms. It can lead to inflammation in the joints and cause significant pain. So, arthritis patients need to reduce or eliminate added sugar consumption from their diet.

2. Red meat
Medical researchers have found that red meat significantly worsens the joint swelling in arthritis patients. Diets high in red or even processed meat have shown to have high levels of inflammatory markers such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and Homocysteine.

3. Gluten
Arthritis patients must reduce their gluten intake. When consumed in large amounts through staple grains such as wheat and barley, gluten can exacerbate the condition. Medical researchers have shown that putting arthritis patients on a gluten-free vegetable diet could significantly improve the condition.

4. Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages should make it to the top of the worst foods for arthritis, as it can cause rapid inflammation. Moreover, it is seen that alcohol has damaged the spinal cord’s structure in people with an arthritic condition. They are more prone to inflammation and pain after consuming alcoholic beverages.

5. Particular vegetable oils
Diets high in omega-6 fats and low in omega-3 have proven to worsen rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These elements are highly necessary for maintaining a healthy body. However, the imbalance in the ratio of these ingredients significantly increases inflammation in arthritis patients.

6. Sodium
Salt is the most commonly consumed source of sodium. However, sodium has been found to aggravate arthritis and increase the risk of other autoimmune diseases.

7. Ultra-processed items
Various ultra-processed food items are available in the market today, like fast food, cereals, and baked goods. These are usually high in refined grains, preservatives, and added sugar. These elements significantly increase the risk of inflammation and can aggravate arthritis symptoms. Research suggests that diets rich in heavily processed foods may increase RA’s risk by contributing to inflammation.

There are various medications and physical therapies to treat arthritis. However, it is also essential to keep a check on what one is eating. With a simple look at the diet and excluding the   worst foods for arthritis,   one can improve their prognosis.