Do you suffer from arthritis pain and find that certain drinks seem to intensify your discomfort? You’re not alone. Many people with arthritis have discovered that certain beverages can worsen their symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore 9 drinks that may be throwing fuel on the fire of your arthritis pain.

Alcohol is a common culprit when it comes to worsening arthritis pain. While some people may find that a glass of wine or a beer helps to temporarily ease their discomfort, excessive alcohol consumption can actually inflame the joints and exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Instead of reaching for that second drink, try sticking to one alcoholic beverage and be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and minimize the negative effects of alcohol on your arthritis pain.

Sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks, and sweetened teas can contribute to inflammation in the body, which can lead to increased arthritis pain. The high sugar content in these beverages can also lead to weight gain, putting added pressure on your joints. Instead of reaching for a sugary drink, try replacing it with water infused with fruit or herbal tea sweetened with a natural sweetener like stevia.

Many arthritis sufferers have a love-hate relationship with coffee. While the caffeine in coffee may provide a temporary energy boost, it can also interfere with sleep and contribute to inflammation in the body. Additionally, some people find that the acidity of coffee can worsen their arthritis symptoms. If you’re a coffee lover, consider switching to a lower-acid coffee or replacing some of your daily cups with herbal tea.

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can be a source of inflammation for some people with arthritis. The proteins found in dairy can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, leading to increased pain and stiffness in the joints. If you suspect that dairy may be exacerbating your arthritis symptoms, try reducing your intake of dairy products and replacing them with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or dairy-free cheese.

Energy drinks are loaded with caffeine, sugar, and artificial ingredients, all of which can wreak havoc on arthritis pain. The combination of stimulants and sugars in these beverages can lead to heightened inflammation and increased discomfort for arthritis sufferers. Instead of relying on energy drinks for a pick-me-up, try incorporating natural energy boosters like exercise, meditation, or a healthy snack.

While fruit juices may seem like a healthy choice, many store-bought varieties are packed with added sugars and lacking in the fiber that whole fruits provide. The high sugar content in fruit juices can contribute to inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate arthritis pain. If you enjoy fruit juice, consider making your own at home with fresh, whole fruits and no added sugars.

The combination of high sugar and carbonation in soft drinks can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to arthritis pain. Not only do the sugars contribute to inflammation, but the carbonation can also lead to bloating and discomfort in the digestive system, which can then worsen arthritis symptoms. Instead of reaching for a soft drink, try sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice for a fizzy, refreshing alternative.

Many people turn to artificially sweetened drinks as a low-calorie alternative to sugary beverages. However, these artificial sweeteners can still contribute to inflammation in the body, which can worsen arthritis pain. Additionally, the chemical additives in these drinks may have other negative effects on overall health. Instead of relying on artificially sweetened drinks, opt for water flavored with cucumber or mint for a refreshing, low-calorie option.

Many canned and bottled teas contain high levels of added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives, all of which can worsen arthritis pain. Additionally, the caffeine in these teas can interfere with sleep and contribute to inflammation in the body. If you enjoy tea, try brewing your own at home with natural, whole ingredients and sweeten it with honey or agave for a healthier, arthritis-friendly option.