Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and causes inflammation. It can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue. While there is no cure for RA, what you eat can have a significant impact on your symptoms.

In this article, we will explore how to eat for rheumatoid arthritis.

Eat Anti-inflammatory Foods

One of the best ways to eat for rheumatoid arthritis is to consume anti-inflammatory foods. These types of foods can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to relieve pain and stiffness.

Some anti-inflammatory foods include:.

Fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, and cherries
Veggies such as spinach, kale, and broccoli
Fatty fish such as salmon and sardines
Nuts and seeds such as almonds and chia seeds
Whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa
Spices such as turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon

Sugar, processed foods and fried foods can increase inflammation, and as a result worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a powerful anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. These healthy fats can be found in fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, as well as in chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bone and joint health. Research has shown that people with rheumatoid arthritis often have low levels of vitamin D.

Eating foods that are high in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products can help to combat this deficiency.

However, it is important to speak with your doctor about this to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D, as consuming excessive amounts can be harmful to your health.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, which is why it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your joints lubricated, reducing stiffness and pain.

Aim to drink at least eight to ten cups of water per day, and decrease your intake of sugary or caffeinated drinks that may dehydrate you.

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

Consuming alcohol and caffeine can worsen inflammation and lead to dehydration. People with rheumatoid arthritis should seek to limit their alcohol and caffeine intake.

Try limiting your alcohol consumption to one drink per day and replacing caffeinated drinks with water or herbal tea.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Carrying excess weight can put additional strain on joints, leading to increased inflammation and pain. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods and limiting your intake of high-calorie, high-fat foods can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Try an Anti-inflammatory Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet is focused on foods that reduce inflammation in the body, reducing pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

If you want to focus on an anti-inflammatory diet, it’s time to incorporate plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains while limiting your intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat.

One of the most popular anti-inflammatory diets is the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish, and olive oil.

Limit Processed Foods

Processed foods are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Cutting back on your consumption of processed foods can help lower levels of inflammation in your body. Choose whole, fresh foods as much as possible.

Eating plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help to boost your nutrient intake and support proper joint health.

Conclusion

While there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, what you eat can significantly impact your symptoms.

Eating a nutritious, anti-inflammatory diet that includes plenty of fruits, veggies, and healthy fats can help to reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with RA. Also, staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight can help keep your body and joints happy and healthy.