Can following an alkaline diet help provide some relief from arthritis-related pain?

Arthritis may seem like an unforgiving foe, but relief might be closer than you think. While medication and surgery are common treatments, a potential ally in your battle against joint pain could be lurking in your kitchen.

Embracing a highly alkaline diet may offer a natural way to alleviate the discomfort and reduced mobility associated with arthritis.

A content creator on Instagram shared a video and mentioned, “Go on a highly alkaline diet, lots of alkaline foods because arthritis is an acid, loves an acid condition start taking large doses of turmeric.”

 

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Dr (Prof.) Raju Vaishya, senior consultant, of orthopaedics and joint replacement, at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi said, “The alkaline diet is based on the theory that consuming alkaline-forming foods can help maintain an optimal pH balance in the body, which is believed to prevent or alleviate various health conditions. The diet emphasises consuming fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and plant-based proteins while limiting acidic foods like meat, dairy, grains, and processed foods.”

It is claimed that an alkaline diet can neutralise excess acid in the body, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being, said Dr Vaishya.

Scientific evidence that claims an alkaline diet can cure arthritis symptoms

Dr Vaishya admits that there is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that an alkaline diet can cure or alleviate arthritis symptoms. While some proponents argue that an alkaline diet can reduce inflammation and joint pain, the relationship between dietary acid load and arthritis is not well-established scientifically.

Alkaline diet can neutralise excess acid in the body, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being. (Source: Freepik)

“Most experts suggest that diet alone is unlikely to have a significant impact on arthritis symptoms and that a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and therapies is generally more effective”, said Dr Vaishya.

Emerging therapies for arthritis

Dr Vaishya mentioned several new and emerging therapies for arthritis such as stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and biological treatments.

Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells into the affected joints to promote cartilage repair and reduce inflammation. Gene therapy aims to modify gene expression to inhibit inflammation or promote cartilage regeneration. Biologic treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, target specific molecules involved in the inflammatory process, offering a more targeted approach to managing arthritis symptoms, explained Dr Vaishya.

Physical activity with the pain and stiffness

Balancing physical activity with arthritis pain and stiffness requires a thoughtful approach. Dr Vaishya suggests, “Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help maintain joint flexibility and strength without putting excessive stress on the joints. Incorporating regular stretching and range-of-motion exercises can also help improve mobility.”

It’s important to listen to your body and adjust activity levels as needed, finding the right balance between staying active and avoiding excessive joint strain or pain, Dr Vaishya further added.

Common misconceptions about arthritis treatment

Dr Vaishya said that there are some common misconceptions about arthritis treatment are that arthritis is an inevitable part of aging, exercise should be avoided to prevent further joint damage, and dietary changes alone can cure arthritis.

It’s crucial to understand that arthritis is a complex condition with various types and underlying causes and that a multifaceted approach involving medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes surgical intervention, may be necessary for effective management, explained Dr Vaishya.

Advice for individuals recently diagnosed with arthritis

For someone recently diagnosed with arthritis, Dr Vaishya said “It’s important to educate yourself about the condition, its types, and available treatment options. Work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive management plan tailored to your specific needs.”

Remain open to trying different treatments and therapies, as finding the right combination may take time and patience, added Dr Vaishya.

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