Red Meats and Processed Meats
Red meats have long been linked to increased inflammation [2] that may aggravate arthritis. Research has shown that red and processed meats both contain high inflammatory markers [3], such as interleukin-6, homocysteine, and C-reactive protein.
A recent study [4] involving 217 participants found that red meat consumption worsened rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Red meat consumption has also been linked [5] to an increased risk of developing inflammatory polyarthritis.
Avoid red meats and processed meats, such as sausages and hot dogs, if you have arthritis. According to a study published in 2019 [6], replacing them with plant-based diets can improve arthritis symptoms.