7. The Happy Hour Hazard: Alcohol
Sometimes a glass of wine helps take the edge off arthritis pain. But in the long run, excessive alcohol consumption can worsen inflammation and might interfere with medications. Moderation is key here. If you enjoy an occasional drink, red wine contains some compounds that might have anti-inflammatory properties when consumed in small amounts.
8. Hidden Troublemakers: Artificial Additives and Preservatives
Many processed foods contain artificial additives, preservatives, and flavor enhancers that may contribute to inflammation. These chemical compounds are often hidden in packaged foods, frozen meals, dressings, and snack items. Reading labels carefully and preparing home-cooked meals with whole ingredients gives you better control over what enters your body and potentially affects your joints.
9. Garden Surprises: Nightshade Vegetables (for some people)
This one’s controversial. Tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers belong to the nightshade family, and some arthritis sufferers report worsened symptoms after eating them. The Arthritis Foundation states “Some people with arthritis swear that nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers worsen their symptoms. While there’s limited scientific evidence to support this claim, eliminating nightshades is an option if you think they trigger arthritis pain.” Scientific evidence is mixed, but if you notice a pattern between eating these vegetables and increased pain, you might consider limiting them to see if it helps.
