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Intermittent fasting can help you lose weight and improve your health. But can it help with osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is a common type of joint disease that affects the knees and other joints. It’s most common among people over 50, but it has been increasing in prevalence among younger adults as well.
According to Arthritis .org, almost 25 million adults have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis. While there isn’t a cure for joint disease, there are several ways to manage symptoms and reduce pain. Intermittent fasting has become increasingly popular for its ability to boost metabolism and aid in fat loss.
This article explores the benefits of intermittent fasting for those living with osteoarthritis, as well as why it could be beneficial to those who don’t have it yet but are at risk for developing it later in life due to family history or other risk factors.
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Contents
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the knees, hands, and spinal joints. It’s most commonly found in the joints of the hands, spine, hips, and knees, and it’s associated with aging. In fact, nearly 50 percent of adults over the age of 65 have some degree of it. Osteoarthritis can also be found in younger people who are at risk for developing it.
Although the condition is often referred to as “wear and tear”, it’s actually a degeneration of joint cartilage, causing pain and inflammation in your joints. Osteoarthritis often occurs due to lifestyle factors such as joint overuse, injury, excess weight, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Why Intermittent Fasting Helps With Osteoarthritis
The reason intermittent fasting helps with osteoarthritis is because it can lead to better weight loss and a healthier metabolism. If you’re living with osteoarthritis, losing weight can help reduce the pain associated with the condition. The added benefit of intermittent fasting for those with osteoarthritis is that it can help with blood sugar control, which can reduce pain from neuropathy (nerve damage from diabetes).
What You Can Do to Help with Osteoarthritis While Intermittently Fasting
If you’re living with osteoarthritis, there are several ways to manage symptoms and reduce pain. First, be sure to assess your diet and find out what foods are causing inflammation in your joints. For example, individuals with osteoarthritis may have a higher risk of developing kidney stones, which may be due in part to certain dietary habits.
Avoiding high-sodium foods can help reduce your risk of developing stones. In addition, you should also be mindful of your alcohol intake. People with osteoarthritis are at increased risk of experiencing adverse effects from alcohol.
If you’re living with osteoarthritis, you may want to consider weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, and yoga. Studies indicate that regular physical activity can improve pain and function among people with osteoarthritis.
Final Words: Should You Fast if You Have Osteoarthritis?
While intermittent fasting may be beneficial for those with osteoarthritis, it’s always important to keep in mind that medications and dietary changes should be discussed with your doctor. Keep in mind that intermittent fasting isn’t for everyone, and if you have osteoarthritis or are at risk for developing it, you may want to speak to your doctor before jumping into a fasting or cleansing regimen.
