Arthritis is a disease of the joints, often characterized by joint swelling, stiffness, and pain. Joint pain is a daily reality for millions of people and has, in some ways, become an accepted part of aging.
However, aging is only a small part of the bigger picture. There are lifestyle factors and co-existing health conditions that can aggravate cases of joint pain, complicate the treatment of conditions like arthritis, and negatively impact your quality of life.
One of the known risk factors is alcohol consumption. Many medications used to treat arthritis do not mix well with alcohol. The harmful effects of alcohol on arthritis patients largely depend on the alcohol.
Drinking alcohol can negatively affect chronic health conditions such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, due to alcohol’s interactions with common arthritis medications (including DMARDs and antimetabolites) and the effects of alcohol on uric acid levels in the body (which can exacerbate gout symptoms). Using arthritis medications and alcohol can sometimes lead to stomach ulcers and liver damage
For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increase the risk of stomach bleeding and ulcers in arthritis patients who drink alcohol. Similarly, antimetabolites, when taken with alcohol, put patients at higher risk of liver damage, such as cirrhosis.
How to drink alcohol to minimize the negative effects on joints?
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are a drinker:
1. Moderate alcohol consumption
It is important to be moderate, as drinking too much alcohol can negatively affect your fitness, increase inflammation, and cause other health problems. Therefore, it is important to drink alcohol in moderation and avoid binge drinking or binge drinking every day.
For example, breaking up your alcohol intake throughout the week, having alcohol-free days, and tracking your alcohol intake can help people maintain moderation and minimize potential harm.
2. Consider drinking red wine in moderation
In particular, moderate consumption of red wine has been linked to potential health benefits due to its polyphenol content, including resveratrol. Resveratrol may exert anti-inflammatory properties and may have a protective effect on overall health.
However, it is important to note that the evidence for a direct effect of red wine or resveratrol on arthritis is limited. This should not be considered a reason to start drinking alcohol if you do not drink alcohol or have a medical condition that requires you to drink alcohol.
If you choose to drink red wine, do so in moderation and consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that alcohol is appropriate for your overall health goals and medical condition.
3. Personalize alcohol consumption
Consider personal factors, including your overall health, medication use, and personal tolerance, when deciding to drink alcohol. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol or may have a medical condition that contraindicates alcohol use.
It is important to remember that alcohol should never be considered a primary treatment for arthritis or a substitute for other lifestyle changes or medical interventions.
If you have not been instructed to abstain from alcohol completely, you can rest assured that drinking a minimal amount of alcohol is ideal for maintaining good health. Drinking too much alcohol can cause many health problems and is not recommended for people with or without arthritis. In addition to limiting your alcohol intake, you should eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise regularly and avoid smoking. These are all helpful factors in maintaining good health and positive health outcomes.
