Arthritis

There are many food myths surrounding arthritis. Some people say that dairy products cause arthritis. Some say that cider vinegar and honey will cure it. Others say that acidic fruits (such as lemons, oranges and grapefruit) and nightshade vegetables (such as potatoes, aubergines and peppers) can make symptoms worse. Many people living with arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, also say there's a link between certain foods and the flare-ups they experience.

There's little evidence to support these claims, but some studies suggest that certain foods may help reduce inflammation and pain, and slow the progression of arthritis. These foods all contribute to a healthy balanced diet, which will help with the arthritis, and can also reduce your risk of developing health complications, such as heart disease, osteoporosis and obesity.

• People taking steroids over a long period of time are more likely to develop osteoporosis. You can reduce your risk of this by eating foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products (milk, cheese and yoghurt), nuts and seeds (especially sesame seeds) and fish such as sardines or whitebait (especially if you eat the bones). The sun on our skin is our main source of vitamin D. However, vitamin D can also be found in oily fish and fortified foods, such as cereals and margarines.
• Certain foods, such as patés, uncooked meats and unpasteurised dairy products, can increase the risk of developing food poisoning. People taking immunosuppressant drugs are advised to avoid them.
• There is increasing evidence that the Mediterranean diet is good for arthritis and a number of other conditions. This diet includes plenty of fruit, vegetables, fish, grains and pulses, with a moderate amount of red meat. Foods rich in omega-3 are believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which may reduce the pain associated with inflamed joints. Omega-3 is found in oily fish, such as sardines, mackerel and salmon. Try to eat at least two portions of oily fish a week. Omega-3 is also found in nuts and seeds (especially linseed or flax seed), and is regularly used to fortify margarines, cereals and bio-live yoghurt drinks.