(HealthDay News) -- A good diet is important for everyone, but it is especially key for people with arthritis. Arthritis can make it harder to get variety in your diet, since fatigue and pain can lower your appetite.
Swollen joints and loss of movement may lead you to avoid foods, such as vegetables, that need more time or effort to prepare and cook. Certain kinds of arthritis and some medications can also affect how well your body uses what you eat.
The University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine recommends seven basic guidelines for a balanced, healthy diet:
- Eat a variety of foods.
- Maintain ideal weight.
- Avoid too much fat and cholesterol.
- Avoid too much sugar.
- Eat foods with enough starch and fiber.
- Avoid too much sodium.
- Drink alcohol in moderation.
A doctor, nutritionist, or other health care professional can help you tailor these guidelines for your needs.
