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monounsaturated fat such as nuts, seeds, avocados and vegetable oil, omega-3 fats such as walnuts, oily fish such as sardines and salmon, fish oil supplements, flaxseed and canola oil. Researchers have found a link between monounsaturated fat and reduced disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis, and between foods rich in omega-3 fats and reduced inflammation, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis, she says. On the other hand, Ms Marine points out that saturated fat, which comes from poultry, full-fat dairy products and red meat, is not beneficial for people suffering from arthritis, as it increases total blood cholesterol levels, particularly unhealthy LDL-cholesterol. This type of cholesterol has been linked with increased cartilage damage in people with osteoarthritis. She says commonly avoided foods believed to negatively impact arthritis sufferers include dairy products, meat and meat products, acid-producing foods such as oranges, lemons and tomatoes, and nightshade foods such as potatoes, eggplant and capsicum. “However, there’s no proof that nightshade foods have any effect on arthritis symptoms or that dairy products or acidic foods cause arthritis,” Ms Marine said. “Acidic foods are rich in vitamin C and hence good for the immune system and overall good health, while dairy products are a rich source of calcium, which is an important building block for strong bones. “This is of extra significance in the quest to keep osteoporosis at bay. “There’s mixed evidence about the effects of vegetarian diets on arthritis.” Ms Marine points out that a vegetarian diet often leads to consumption of more vegetables and fruits, and more vitamins as a result, while a lower intake of fat could be a contributing factor to weight loss. “These factors could help alleviate arthritis symptoms,” she said. “However, a strict vegetarian diet may mean a person misses out on other important nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12.” Studies revealing that consumption of a plant-focused diet may contribute to symptom and inflammation reduction include ‘Osteoarthritis and the Mediterranean diet: A systematic review’4 and ‘Nutrition interventions in rheumatoid arthritis: The potential use of plant-based diets. A review’.5 According to registered dietitian and blogger Andy De Santis, alcohol, refined carbohydrates made with white flour, foods high in saturated fat such as certain higher fat dairy and red meat products as well as processed red meats such as salami, sausages and hot dogs should be consumed in moderation. For those with osteoarthritis, he advises cholesterol-lowering foods such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, oatmeal and soy-based foods. In conclusion, Ms Marine advises pharmacists to suggest that people living with arthritis contact their local arthritis organisation to learn ways of HEALTH ARTHRITIS 41 better managing their condition (national Arthritis Infoline: 1800 011 041). 2021 Census and arthritis The extent to which arthritis is being taken seriously is evident in the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 Census topics and data release plan. The plan outlines the questions and information that will be collected in the 2021 Census, including when and how Census data will be released. The ABS will introduce two new questions in the 2021 Census – the first significant Census question changes since 2006. The new questions ask about long- term health conditions such as arthritis, asthma and diabetes, and Australian Defence Force participation. “The addition of the two new questions will enhance the value of the 2021 Census to the Australian community,” Census Executive Director Andrew Henderson said. “Information on long-term health conditions will inform preventive health programs and funding for local services. It will also assist decision making for health authorities, researchers, policy makers, communicators and educators.” References 1. onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/ (ISSN)2326-5205?utm_source=miragenews&utm_ medium=miragenews&utm_campaign=news. 2. tentomen.org.au/research-findings/insights- report/obesity. 3. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5682732/ table/T2/. 4. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115848/ 5. frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2019.00141/full. Explore our product range online www.grabthegoanna.com.au Delivers temporary relief of pain associated with mild arthritis and rheumatism, backache and muscle pain. GOANNA Arthritis Cream provides penetrating and soothing analgesia and is suitable for targeted pain areas such as knees, shoulders and hands where it can be applied directly to the site of pain and discomfort. RRP: $9.99 Stockist Inquiries: 03 9809 7900 This medicines may not be right for you. Read the warnings before purchase. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. RETAIL PHARMACY • JAN/FEB 2021