Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that is characterized by a continual inflammation of the spine and the sacroiliac joints. The chronic inflammation in the spine can eventually lead to a cementing of the vertebrae, a process known as ankylosis. When ankylosis sets in, it results in a loss in mobility of the spine. The usual symptoms of the disease include fatigue associated with irritation of the spine, lower back, upper buttock, and the neck. The onset of pain and a rigor mortis kind of stiffness is gradual and worsens with time.  The inclination to develop this form of spondylitis is a genetic feature. It has been observed in 90% of the patients suffering from these disease are born with the HLA-B27 gene. The presence of this gene makes a person vulnerable to ankylosis spondylitis.

The disease can be effectively avoided by eating a balanced diet. A diet rich in oily fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel should be consumed. In addition, Vitamin C aids in bolstering the immune system and hence, consumption of pears, apples, berries, pawpaws etc is recommended. Foods such as oats, tripe, shark fin soup, Irish moss and mussels are rich in proteoglycans, which in turn are essential to nourish cartilage.
To regulate the overall health of the digestive system, fibrous food should be consumed and food that can be classified as ‘junk’ should be avoided. It has been found that tea and coffee consumed along with meals can interfere in the digestive process. So, consumption of tea and coffee should be restrained.

Ankylosing spondylitis can be avoided by taking essential supplements like omega-3 oils, calcium, magnesium, sodium and vitamin A and C complex. To avoid such a condition, weight should be controlled. Excessive weight puts heavy pressure on the joints, and this may aggravate the body’s tendency to develop joint problems. Regular exercise ensures a healthy metabolic rate and thus helps in maintaining weight. It is imperative to rest well and keep stress at bay. Studies have revealed that stress and anxiety are major contributors that disturb the equilibrium of the body. This leads to deterioration in the levels of calcium and magnesium that may increase the chances of developing such a disease. Prolonged pain of the lower back region must not be ignored. It could be a sign of ankylosing spondylitis. An early detection of the disease will help keep the pain to a minimal level.