Millions of arthritis sufferers in the UK have been warned that two common fruits could aggravate their symptoms. Apples and tomatoes have been identified as potential 'pain triggers' by the Physicians Committee, which advises that diet can play a significant role in managing arthritis.
Arthritis, which causes pain, swelling, inflammation, and mobility issues, currently has no cure, but symptoms can be controlled. The Physicians Committee states that dietary changes may help eliminate pain entirely for some patients. A survey of over 1,000 arthritis patients found that red meat, sugar, fat, salt, caffeine, and nightshade plants most commonly worsen the condition.
Both apples and tomatoes contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid poison found in nightshade family species. A 2013 study published in the Arab Journal of Nuclear Sciences and Applications examined the link between solanine and arthritis, suggesting that eliminating nightshade plants could alleviate joint pain and reduce tissue destruction. However, the Arthritis Society Canada recommends monitoring individual responses to solanine-containing foods.
In related news, a diabetes drug, Canagliflozin, has been found to help patients with autoimmune diseases by influencing T-cells. This could benefit over 400,000 people in the UK with rheumatoid arthritis and 50,000 with lupus.
