Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It can be a disabling disease that affects the way a person lives their life.

There are many factors that can influence the severity of RA symptoms, one of which is weight.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

RA is an auto-immune disease where the body’s immune system attacks and damages the lining of the joints. This results in inflammation, swelling, and stiffness of the joints.

RA can cause damage to other organs in the body such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.

How Does Weight Affect Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Being overweight increases the stress placed on the weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, which can worsen RA symptoms.

Extra weight can also cause inflammation throughout the body, leading to an increase in pain and stiffness in the joints.

In addition to worsening symptoms, being overweight is also associated with an increased risk of developing RA. A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that obesity increased the risk of RA in women by up to 40 percent.

The Benefits of Weight Loss for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Weight loss has been shown to have numerous benefits for people with RA. Losing weight can lead to:.

Reduction in joint pain and stiffness
Decrease in inflammation
Improvement in physical function
Better overall health and well-being

A study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that overweight and obese individuals who lost weight had significantly lower levels of inflammation and improved physical function compared to those who did not lose weight.

In addition, weight loss can also reduce the risk of developing other conditions associated with RA such as heart disease and diabetes.

How to Lose Weight with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Losing weight can be a challenge for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for people with RA who may experience pain and limited mobility. Here are some tips for safe and effective weight loss with RA:.

Consult with your doctor before starting any weight loss program
Focus on making lifestyle changes rather than crash dieting
Avoid foods that increase inflammation, such as processed and fried foods
Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Incorporate low-impact exercises such as swimming or walking into your daily routine
Consider working with a physical therapist or personal trainer who has experience working with people with RA

Conclusion

Weight can have a significant impact on the severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Being overweight can worsen inflammation and pain in the joints and increase the risk of developing RA.

However, weight loss has been shown to reduce inflammation, decrease pain and stiffness, and improve physical function. With the right approach, safe and effective weight loss is possible for people with RA.