Obesity refers to abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that causes several chronic diseases that affect the heart, liver, kidneys, joints, and reproductive system. According to medical experts, obesity and arthritis are linked. Arthritis is the inflammation or swelling of one or more joints, causing stiffness. There are about a hundred types of arthritis—the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Excess weight put extra pressure on the weight-bearing joints like knees and hips thus causing achy, swollen, stiff joints. As a result, the protective cartilage (the cushion between bones in your joints) degenerates, and due to this constant wear and tear on the cartilage, osteoarthritis develops. The presence of excess fat in the body releases biochemicals that cause inflammation in the whole body including the joints thereby increasing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
India’s leading dietician for weight loss, Avni Kaul, explains how losing weight can help you manage arthritis better.
- Alleviates pain and pressure: Losing just 10% of the body weight can reduce arthritis pain in half. The more weight you lose, the less pressure will be on your joints, resulting in less wear and tear on your body. Studies reveal that osteoarthritis patients who lost weight by following the right diet and daily exercise experienced less knee pain.
- Better joint function: Weight loss reduces pressure on your joints thus improving joint function. According to doctors, slow or brisk walking can make your joints feel better.
- Reduces inflammation: Inflammation can make several autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, etc worse. Weight loss reduces fat stores in the body thus helping to manage arthritis better.
- Better disease control: Studies reveal that Rheumatoid arthritis patients who lost at least 5 kilos had three times better disease control compared to those who were overweight. This disease activity score helps doctors to treat their patients better.
- Helps in joint surgery: Losing weight before joint replacement surgery reduces the risk associated with the surgery. Additionally, rehabilitation is easier post-surgery.
- Reduces risk of chronic ailments: Research shows that patients with Rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing chronic ailments like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Weight loss can keep a check on blood pressure and cholesterol levels thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Weight loss tips if you suffer from Arthritis
Losing weight can be painful, but not more than the pain one experiences due to arthritis. Here are a few quick tips to lose weight:
1. Diet: Anti-inflammatory diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds help in weight loss by boosting energy levels, improving digestion, and supporting decreased food consumption as these foods are more filling. A Mediterranean diet that includes fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces inflammation. Watch your portions and have a regular balanced diet.
2. Light exercise: Exercise will not only help you lose weight faster but also lubricate the joints thus reducing arthritic pain.
3. Stay well hydrated to manage your appetite better.
Conclusion :Last but not least, weight loss not only helps to manage arthritis better but is important for our overall health.
