What is Arthritis? Arthritis is an inflammatory condition of the musculoskeletal systems (Muscles and Bones). The condition results in pain, swelling, stiffness and damage to the cartilage, which is the tissue covering the ends of the bones. This damage leads to the bones rubbing up against each other rather than being supported by cushy membranes…this is what causes the extreme pain...
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It is commonly thought that this is a condition affecting only the elderly, which is in fact untrue. It affects 3.85 million Australians and 2.4 million of those suffering are of working age.
The cause of arthritis is dependant on the type of arthritis (there are 100 different arthritic conditions) but common causes include; injury, abnormal metabolism, wear and tear of the joint, infections, inheritance and overactive immunity.
Although the cause of the condition may at times be out of our hands, there are many ways we can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
Here are my top tips to do so:
1. Consume Omega 3 fatty acids, these are used in the body to create anti-inflammatory compounds. Top sources are oily fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines and Tuna. Nuts and seeds such as Walnuts and Flaxseeds/Linseeds. In extreme cases a supplement may be needed, seek professional help first.
2. Avoid acidic foods on a regular basis. Refined sugar, coffee/tea, white flour products and alcohol are the top offenders. This food encourages inflammation within the body.
3. Get fresh! Load your daily diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables. This helps to regulate the pH of your blood inturn regulating inflammation. The anti-oxidants in these foods also improve the functioning of your immunity.
4. Avoid damaged fats, such as deep fried food products and trans fats found largely in packaged cakes, biscuits, crackers, potato chips and muesli bars. These encourage inflammation and also inhibit the action of omega 3 within the body, which we need working at full steam to create anti-inflammatory compounds.
5. Get active! Although feeling a bit stiff and in pain numerous studies have found physical activity to be affective in reducing the pain associated with arthritis. Try a gentle walk or even swimming for low impact options.
The cause of arthritis is dependant on the type of arthritis (there are 100 different arthritic conditions) but common causes include; injury, abnormal metabolism, wear and tear of the joint, infections, inheritance and overactive immunity.
Although the cause of the condition may at times be out of our hands, there are many ways we can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
Here are my top tips to do so:
1. Consume Omega 3 fatty acids, these are used in the body to create anti-inflammatory compounds. Top sources are oily fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines and Tuna. Nuts and seeds such as Walnuts and Flaxseeds/Linseeds. In extreme cases a supplement may be needed, seek professional help first.
2. Avoid acidic foods on a regular basis. Refined sugar, coffee/tea, white flour products and alcohol are the top offenders. This food encourages inflammation within the body.
3. Get fresh! Load your daily diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables. This helps to regulate the pH of your blood inturn regulating inflammation. The anti-oxidants in these foods also improve the functioning of your immunity.
4. Avoid damaged fats, such as deep fried food products and trans fats found largely in packaged cakes, biscuits, crackers, potato chips and muesli bars. These encourage inflammation and also inhibit the action of omega 3 within the body, which we need working at full steam to create anti-inflammatory compounds.
5. Get active! Although feeling a bit stiff and in pain numerous studies have found physical activity to be affective in reducing the pain associated with arthritis. Try a gentle walk or even swimming for low impact options.
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