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Busting food myths related to arthritis

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children. However, it is increasingly common in aged individuals. It causes stiffness and painful aches in the joints and muscles of the body. There is a lot of confusion about arthritis, from its causes to ways to manage the condition, but even more so related to what foods are good or bad for it. This article busts some common food-related myths surrounding arthritis.

Top food myths concerning arthritis you should not believe

Tomatoes can be harmful
Tomatoes were previously believed to be poisonous and often associated with making arthritis worse. The myth originated because tomatoes contain solanine, a naturally produced toxin that is believed to cause inflammation, swelling, and joint pain. But there is no medical evidence of tomatoes proving to be harmful to arthritis patients. Vegetables in the same family, such as eggplants and potatoes, are also safe to eat.

Citrus aggravates inflammation
There is a lot of misinformation on the internet that warns arthritis patients to stay away from citrus fruits because they aggravate inflammation. This is not true. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which helps manage arthritis pain and protects against free radicals, which could damage the cartilage, flaring inflammation. Citrus fruits are critical in collagen and proteoglycans formation too.

Vinegar can reduce stiffness
There isn’t sufficient research to prove that drinking vinegar lessens stiffness or pain. Some believe that apple cider vinegar destroys free radicals, which are essentially reactive chemical species responsible for the destruction of cellular components. Keep in mind that is not factually correct. However, it is best to limit your consumption of vinegar to dips and salad dressings.

Gin-soaked raisins are good for arthritis
Another pretty popular myth is that consuming a dozen gin-soaked raisins a day relieves arthritis pain. But there is no scientific evidence to back this. In fact, it is believed that even though one might feel temporary relief, it lasts only till the effects of the spirit wears off. Additionally, even centuries ago, juniper berries used to flavor gin were prescribed for anti-inflammatory properties but this has not been proven too.

Dairy products need to be avoided
There is a popular notion that avoiding dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese helps manage the symptoms of arthritis. The idea originated from the belief that lactose-intolerant individuals could not absorb nutrients from it. A number of dairy allergies further fueled this belief. But this is a myth. Arthritis patients can consume dairy products as long as they are not allergic to them.

Gelatin helps manage arthritis pain
The myth goes that consuming gelatin strengthens your joints since it helps increase collagen content. While collagen is vital to help in the smooth functioning of the bones, artificially injecting collagen or having gelatin capsules is not known to help manage arthritis symptoms. The fact is that gelatin may not make any difference to joint pain.

Salt must be put in your shoes
Since arthritis worsens due to rain and humidity, some people believe that sprinkling salt in their shoes can help. This will absorb the moisture and relieve joint swelling and pain. This is untrue. There is no scientific research to back this.

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