Guest Article: March 2025
Kate Cleveland of Kiss Your Food shares how your diet can help reduce arthritis pain.
What Is Inflammation?
This word gets tossed around a lot, but what does it actually mean for you? Inflammation is your body’s natural way of protecting itself when something is wrong, like an injury or infection. But in arthritis, the immune system stays overactive, causing constant swelling and pain in the joints. This is why arthritis can make movement difficult and uncomfortable.
Foods to Limit or Cut Back On:
Processed and fried foods – fast food, chips, and packaged snacks
Sugary treats – desserts, soda, and candy.
Red and processed meats – bacon, sausage, and steaks
Refined carbs – white bread, pasta, and pastries
Foods to Enjoy or Add to Your Diet:
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel – they’re packed with omega-3s, which fight inflammation.
Avocado or olive oils – great alternatives to butter or processed seed oils, these contain healthy fats that support joint health.
Berries – blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are full of antioxidants that help reduce swelling.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale provide important vitamins and minerals.
Nuts and seeds – almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are full of good fats that support the joints.
Making small changes to your diet can help you feel better over time. Try swapping out a few processed or sugary foods for whole, nutrient-rich options, and see how your joints respond!
Join Kate for a special Lunch & Learn session on “Eating to Reduce Arthritis Pain”.
Monday, March 10 from 12:15-1:00pm at the Betty Ehart Senior Activity Center. Call 505-662-8920 to sign up!
Monday, March 17 from 12:15-1:00pm at the White Rock Senior Activity Center. Call 505-672-2034 to sign up!