Research suggests that eating foods with healthy fats rather than foods with unhealthy fats may help reduce the symptoms of arthritis. While these effects are modest but compared to medicines, healthier fats do not have any serious side effects. Healthier dietary fats are so important for Over 50’s with arthritis, Researchers have found a link between these types of fats and reduced disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis. Foods that are high in monounsaturated fats include vegetable oils (olive oil, canola oil, sunflower oil), avocados and many nuts and seeds. Omega-3 fats: Studies show that eating foods rich in omega-3 fats can help reduce inflammation, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis. Foods rich in omega-3 fats include: fish: oily fish, such as sardines and salmon, have greater amounts of omega-3 fats. ground linseeds and linseed oil (also called flaxseed), canola oil (also called grapeseed oil) and walnuts. With all of this in mind over 50’s also need to be aware of Harmful dietary fat like Saturated fat. This is a type of fat that comes mainly from red meat, poultry and full-fat dairy products. Saturated fat raises total blood cholesterol levels, particularly unhealthy LDL-cholesterol. This type of cholesterol has been linked with increased cartilage damage in people with osteoarthritis. These fats can also increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
