Preservatives in dried fruit help keep the fruit from darkening and shrinking too much during the drying process. Preservatives also inhibit bacteria growth and extend the shelf life of the fruit. Common preservatives used in dried fruit include sodium sulfite and potassium sorbate. Although these preservatives can produce an allergic reaction in some people, joint stiffness is not a symptom of an allergic reaction. If you are experiencing joint stiffness, it may be due to a cause unrelated to the dried fruit preservatives.
Sulfites
Sulfites, which include sodium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium dioxide and potassium bisulfite, can lead to headaches, upset stomach, gas or diarrhea in people who have an intolerance for them. The symptoms usually are temporary and not life-threatening. For some people who have asthma, sulfites can trigger an asthma attack, in which their airway swells and contracts, leading to wheezing and difficulty breathing. A severe asthma attack can lead to death, so avoid dried fruits and other foods treated with sulfites if you have asthma.
Joint Stiffness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common causes of joint pain and stiffness are osteoarthritis, injury, repetitive motion and prolonged abnormal posture. Rheumatoid arthritis, joint abnormalities and even diseases ranging from flu to hepatitis can cause your joints to be stiff and painful. Inflammation or injury causes your joints to hurt and be difficult to move. Arthritic joints may swell, while joints in which the cartilage has worn away through years of use can hurt without obvious swelling.
Joint Stiffness and Preservatives
Sulfites, the most common preservatives used on dried fruit, have not been linked specifically to most joint stiffness. Some people who suffer from fibromyalgia, a disease characterized by fatigue, tender points on the body and stiffness, report being sensitive to preservatives and artificial ingredients in general. If you have fibromyalgia, ask your doctor whether you should avoid dried fruit that has been treated with preservatives.
Alternatives to Preservatives
If you're trying to avoid preservatives in dried fruit but still want to enjoy the fruit, you can purchase preservative-free fruits in health food or organic food stores. Read the labels carefully: Manufacturers are required to note when a food contains added sulfites. You also can make your own dried fruit at home, either in the oven or with a food dehydrator. The fruit may be darker and shrink more than fruit treated with preservatives, and the shelf life will not be as long.
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق