The food that an individual consumes has a direct impact on their health. About 100 types of ailments that affect the muscles, bones, and joints are grouped as arthritis. Apart from medication and other natural forms of treatment, the diet has always played a crucial role in improving or worsening symptoms of arthritis. One of the earliest arthritis to be recognized and named was gout.

Gout and the pain associated with it was declared to be the result of indulgence in food and alcohol. Rich food and overeating were believed to cause inflammation which further lead to unbearable pain. It was observed that people who were on a diet of excessive meat, seafood and alcohol were more at risk of gout rather than not so affluent people who were on a diet of vegetables. This logic made gout to be termed as “sickness of the kings”.

Even today America and Europe have more incidence of gout as compared to those countries which favor a predominantly plant-based diet. Purine rich food is one of the culprits of gout and hence a diet that is less in purine not only prevents gout but also improves the symptoms of those who have already been affected. Not only gout, but other types of arthritis also responds to a diet that has lesser inflammatory properties. A plant-based diet has been recommended as a natural treatment for many types of arthritis. A few pointers that can help to manage your diet are:

1. Consume a well balanced diet
Eat a well-balanced diet that can supply the body required quantity of vitamins, minerals, and immune boosters.

2. Healthy fats
Consciously increase food that contains Omega-3 fatty acids including fatty fish.

3. Calcium
Increase your calcium intake as calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis as one age.

4. Anti-inflammation diet
Include anti-inflammatory foods like spinach, kale, tomatoes, broccoli supply nutrients as well as they contain antioxidants which can help the body immensely. Fruits like oranges, grapes, strawberry, raspberry, and avocado help fight inflammation Avoid food that can trigger inflammation like red meat, rich dairy products, artificial sweeteners, and flavor additives.

5. Anti-oxidants
Two to three glasses of green tea is a great supply of antioxidants that can build immunity.

6. Hydrate
Drink a lot of water and keep your body hydrated.

7. Exercise daily
Though no cure is promised by a modification in diet, a combination of a balanced diet, light to moderate physical activity, a daily dose of bright sunshine, and normal BMI can go a long way in helping an arthritic patient to lead a reasonably less painful life. Apart from a balanced diet, old fashioned treatments and cures can create wonders to relieve arthritis pain.

Also, if the condition is critical, there are several old fashioned treatments and new therapies that can help in the treatment of arthritis. For example, eucalyptus oil is an old fashioned home remedy to treat arthritis pain. Medication, surgeries, therapies and home remedies are all old fashioned ways to treat arthritis.