Psoriatic arthritis is a condition caused due to an autoimmune disease resulting in inflammation of the skin (psoriasis) and joints. The inflammation caused can range from mild to severe, and no single psoriatic arthritis treatment works for everyone. The elbows, knees, wrist, neck, and lower back are often affected by psoriatic arthritis. This condition is common in people suffering from inflammation of the skin and joints. Risk factors for psoriatic arthritis include skin psoriasis, genetics, and a person’s environment.
Symptoms include swollen, stiff, and painful joints, changes in the nails, pain in the heels, and fatigue. As treatment options vary from person to person, natural treatments for psoriatic arthritis could be beneficial for patients. There are certain foods that can be used as natural treatments for psoriatic arthritis. Given below is a list of foods to eat and avoid when diagnosed with this condition:
1. Omega-3 fatty acids
Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, foods such as flaxseeds, olive oil, fatty fish, nuts, and avocados help in managing inflammation and pain caused due to psoriatic arthritis. Omega-3 supplements are also easily available.
2. Fruits and vegetables
A great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the consumption of fruits and vegetables helps in relieving severe inflammatory symptoms. It also helps in reducing pain caused in the joints due to psoriatic arthritis. Green leafy vegetables, nuts, and berries are a great source of antioxidants.
3. Whole-grain foods
Oats, quinoa, brown rice are some examples of whole grains. Including whole grains in one’s diet is an effective natural treatment for psoriatic arthritis. These foods contain nutrients and are a great source of fiber. They help the digestive system to function efficiently. Intake of fibrous foods also helps in reducing inflammatory symptoms caused due to psoriatic arthritis.
4. Herbs and spices
Herbs and spices help in enhancing the taste of food but also do not contain any fats. They are ideal treatments to get rid of psoriatic arthritis.
5. Dairy products
Some dairy products can cause inflammation in the gut and raise insulin levels. This might be due to allergies to foods containing lactose. Also, dairy products have high fats and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Avoiding dairy products can help manage the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
6. Processed foods
Intake of processed foods should be completely avoided to control the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. These foods exacerbate joint pains and cause inflammatory symptoms. They increase the risk of obesity and cholesterol levels. Carbonated drinks and sugar are examples of processed foods.
6. Red meat
The high amount of fats present in red meat causes inflammatory symptoms. So reducing the intake of red meat and including lean meats in one’s diet will help reduce the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
7. Gluten foods
Foods such as pasta, bread, and processed foods contain gluten. People with psoriatic arthritis are sensitive to foods containing gluten as they can trigger inflammation and joint pains. A natural treatment for psoriatic arthritis is consuming a gluten-free diet.