20. Aspartame
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free and low-calorie products, such as diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and some packaged foods. Some individuals with arthritis may be sensitive to aspartame, which can trigger an inflammatory response and worsen joint pain and stiffness.
To minimize the impact of aspartame on arthritis, focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods and limiting your intake of products containing artificial sweeteners. Instead, opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia, which have a lower glycemic index and are less likely to trigger inflammation.