EASE joint pain associated with arthritis by shunning this popular drink. Avoiding high-impact exercises that put pressure on joints, such as jogging and aerobics, will also help soothe the discomfort caused by the disease.
Arthritis pain affects over 10 million people in the UK.
Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Studies have shown that sufferers should think twice about their morning cup of coffee, as caffeine can weaken bones and exacerbate the joint pain associated with arthritis.
“Caffeine leaches calcium from bones, sapping their strength,” according to WebMD.
One cup of coffee contains around 100 milligrams of caffeine, the same amount as many energy drinks. A can of cola contains about one third of that.
One tip for cutting down caffeine is to wean yourself off your coffee habit by choosing decaf for every second cup.
Also be sure to avoid high-caffeine sodas and energy drinks, and choose tea over coffee whenever you can.
WebMD notes that although tea also contains caffeine, studies suggest it does not harm bone density, and might actually help density in older women. It may be because tea contains plant compounds that protect bone.
Green, black, oolong and white teas are all rich in polyphenols – compounds from plants that boost the immune system and help fight inflammation – which have been recommended to arthritis sufferers to ease joint pain.
The Arthritis Foundation also advises avoiding high-impact exercises that are tough on joints, in order to reduce strain.
“Research shows pounding exercises like kickboxing and step aerobics can be tough on joints. Switch to low-impact activities like biking and swimming that offer the same calorie-burning benefits without the painful pounding,” it states.
They also recommend simple stretching exercises to keep muscles flexible and working at their best.
Arthritis pain: Caffeine weakens bones which can worsen joint pain
Even when your joints are painful, it’s important to keep moving, the foundation says. “When possible, alternate between sitting and standing to prevent stiffness and strain.”
They also recommend that women ditch high heels. As well as exacerbating joint pain in arthritis sufferers, heels put extra stress on your knees and may increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis.
“Look for flexible, supportive shoes that are squared or rounded at the toe so your toes can move around. A shoe with a rubber sole will give you more cushion. Make sure your shoe is flexible at the ball of your foot, where you push off.”
Taking daily omega-3 supplements can also help ease joint pain, inflammation and stiffness that comes with arthritis.
They also recommend that women ditch high heels. As well as exacerbating joint pain in arthritis sufferers, heels put extra stress on your knees and may increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis.
“Look for flexible, supportive shoes that are squared or rounded at the toe so your toes can move around. A shoe with a rubber sole will give you more cushion. Make sure your shoe is flexible at the ball of your foot, where you push off.”
Taking daily omega-3 supplements can also help ease joint pain, inflammation and stiffness that comes with arthritis.
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