The winter holidays bring an abundance of sugary treats, but for those living with arthritis, excess sugar consumption can exacerbate inflammation, leading to more frequent and severe arthritis flare-ups.
Arthritis, a term used to describe a group of over 100 diseases, is characterized by inflammation in the joints or other areas of the body. Studies show that sugar promotes inflammatory proteins and harmful compounds, worsening symptoms in various forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout.
Managing sugar intake—by limiting processed foods and focusing on a balanced diet—can help reduce inflammation and support joint health.
Read the full article to learn how mindful choices around sugar can empower you to manage arthritis symptoms this holiday season.
Healthy eating to reduce your risk of arthritis
Research shows that the decisions you make about what and how you eat can have a profound impact on your overall health and wellness, both mentally and physically. The good news is that you likely don’t need a specifically tailored “arthritis diet”; even small changes can make an incremental improvement to your overall health, and in turn, improve your ability to live well with arthritis.
Try these two arthritis-friendly holiday recipes — fantastic for hosting and packed with nutrients to support your joint health.
Festive barley chicken
This one-pot comfort recipe, bursting with flavour and fibre, could boost your immune system and lower inflammation. Antioxidant-rich cranberries add a dash of deliciousness and colour - a must-try this holiday season!
Raspberry clafoutis
This berry-studded dessert blends the creaminess of custard with the fluffiness of a pancake. Low in saturated fat, packed with fiber and antioxidants, and featuring low-GI raspberries - it’s a perfect treat for entertaining.
Click here to explore more recipes from Arthritis Society Canada and start cooking your way to better health today!
TRIPLE your impact with Arthritis Society Canada
Whether creating holiday magic, hosting family gatherings, or celebrating with friends, arthritis can steal joy from these cherished moments and disrupt treasured holiday traditions. Everyday tasks become impossible challenges, with no cure to bring relief.
This holiday season you have the chance to help take back what arthritis has stolen.
Arthritis Society Canada is excited to announce a special matching gift offer from our partner, Serein Properties, that will TRIPLE your holiday gift. This means you can kick off the season with 3X the impact on critical efforts to create a future free from the pain of arthritis.
TRIPLE your impact with Arthritis Society Canada today by clicking here to donate.
Get involved with Arthritis Society Canada
Join Arthritis Society Canada for a series of engaging and impactful events designed to raise awareness and funds to support people living with this devastating disease and drive research breakthroughs, advocacy, innovation, and educational resources. Learn more here.
About Arthritis Society Canada
Arthritis Society Canada represents the six million people in Canada living with arthritis today, and the millions more who are impacted or at risk. Arthritis Society Canada is fighting arthritis with research, advocacy, innovation, information and support.
As Canada’s largest charitable funder of cutting-edge arthritis research, Arthritis Society Canada is dedicated to building a future where everyone is free from the agony of arthritis.