What Food to Avoid When You Have Knee Pain?
Do you suffer from knee pain? If so, you’re not alone. Knee pain is one of the common health complaints in the world. There are different causes of knee pain, but one of the most common is arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints and can cause inflammation and pain. We will discuss the top foods to avoid if you want to reduce knee pain.
1) Sugary Foods
Knee pain is associated with inflammation, so avoiding foods that may contribute to this is essential. Sugary foods such as candy, soda, and processed baked goods can cause inflammation in the body, making knee pain worse.
These food items contain high levels of refined carbohydrates, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar, increased insulin production, and inflammation.
2) Fried Foods
Transfat is a significant cause of knee pain and other joint problems. Fried foods contain a lot of trans fat, so it’s essential to avoid them if you’re trying to reduce your knee pain. Fried foods are also very high in calories and can easily contribute to obesity and worsening knee pain.
3) Fats
There are three types of fat; monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated.
a) Mono and polyunsaturated fats should be eaten in moderation. They are found in plant-based oils, nuts, and fish.
b) Saturated fats should be avoided as much as possible since they cause inflammation. These are typically found in red meat, lard, butter, fried foods, and fast food.
Knee pain occurs when the joints become inflamed, so the less saturated fat you eat, the better it is for your joint health and overall knee pain.
4) Refined Carbohydrates
Regarding knee pain, refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta are some of the worst offenders. These foods increase cytokine levels in the body. Cytokine is a protein produced by immune system cells and can cause inflammation.
5) Red Meat & Processed Meats
Red meat and processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, ham, and cold cuts, are high in saturated fat. This type of fat can cause inflammation that can worsen knee pain. Eating red meat and processed meats can also increase your risk for other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke. It’s best to limit the amount of these foods in your diet.
6) Sodium
When dealing with knee pain, it’s essential to watch your sodium intake. Too much salt can lead to fluid retention and inflammation, contributing to joint pain. Processed foods are the biggest culprits here; they often contain high levels of sodium, so try to avoid them as much as possible. Instead, use fresh herbs and spices to flavor your food, or opt for low-sodium versions of packaged foods.
7) Dairy Products
Dairy products contain a substance called AGEs (Advanced Glycation Endproducts). These substances are known to cause inflammation and contribute to joint pain. Avoiding or limiting dairy products such as milk, cheese, ice cream, sour cream, yogurt, and butter reduces knee pain.
Knee pain can be a debilitating experience that can reduce mobility, cause fatigue, and disrupt your daily life. Contact Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for knee pain in Baltimore. We offer comprehensive treatment plans and the latest evidence-based care.