Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints and can result in pain, stiffness, and swelling.

While there is no cure for RA, managing symptoms through medication and lifestyle changes can help improve quality of life for those living with the condition. One important aspect of managing RA is paying attention to diet. Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation and worsen symptoms. Here are 30 foods to avoid if you have rheumatoid arthritis:.

1. Red Meat

Red meat, particularly processed and fatty cuts, can worsen inflammation and contribute to the development of RA. Try replacing red meat with leaner protein sources like fish, chicken, and tofu.

2. Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can trigger inflammation in some individuals with RA. If you find that dairy worsens your symptoms, try non-dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk.

3. Refined Carbohydrates

Foods like white bread, pasta, and rice are high in refined carbs, which can contribute to inflammation. Consider switching to whole grain options for a healthier option.

4. Sugary Drinks

Sodas, energy drinks, and sports drinks are all high in sugar and can trigger inflammation. Try swapping sugary drinks for water or unsweetened tea.

5. Alcohol

Drinking alcohol can worsen inflammation and pain in individuals with RA. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation.

6. Fried Foods

Fried foods like french fries, fried chicken, and onion rings are high in trans fats, which can contribute to inflammation. Opt for baked or grilled options instead.

7. Processed Foods

Processed foods like frozen meals, snacks, and chips often contain high amounts of preservatives, salt, and sugar, all of which can contribute to inflammation. Stick to whole, unprocessed foods as much as possible for a healthier diet.

8. Gluten

Some individuals with RA may have a gluten intolerance, which can worsen inflammation. If you suspect gluten is a trigger for your symptoms, try a gluten-free diet to see if it makes a difference.

9. Certain Oils

Certain oils like vegetable, corn, and soybean oil are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation. Opt for healthier oils like olive or coconut oil instead.

10. Sweets

While treats like cookies and candy can be enjoyable, they are high in sugar and can contribute to inflammation and weight gain. Limit your intake of sweets, and choose healthier options like fruit or dark chocolate instead.

11. Deli Meats

Deli meats like ham, bacon, and salami are high in sodium and can contribute to inflammation. Choose freshly cooked meat like chicken or turkey instead of packaged deli meats.

12. Salt

Too much salt intake can lead to inflammation and contribute to high blood pressure. Be mindful of your salt intake and opt for herbs and spices to add flavor instead.

13. Caffeine

Caffeine can worsen inflammation and contribute to joint pain. Try reducing your intake of coffee, tea, and energy drinks if you find it worsens RA symptoms.

14. Certain Fruits

Certain fruits like citrus and berries can cause inflammation in some individuals with RA. While not everyone will have a problem with these fruits, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid any foods that trigger symptoms.

15. Certain Vegetables

Similar to fruits, certain vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant can worsen inflammation in some individuals with RA. If you find these foods cause discomfort, try limiting them or excluding them from your diet.

16. Soy Products

Soy products like soy milk, tofu, and edamame can worsen inflammation in some individuals. If you find that soy products trigger your RA symptoms, try replacing them with other protein sources like chickpeas or lentils.

17. Shellfish

While not all seafood is problematic for individuals with RA, shellfish like shrimp, lobster, and crabs have been known to worsen inflammation. Consider rotating your protein options to avoid overconsumption of shellfish.

18. Certain Nuts

While nuts can be a great source of protein and healthy fats, certain types like cashews and peanuts can worsen inflammation in some individuals with RA. Try other options like almonds or macadamia nuts instead.

19. Nightshade Vegetables

Nightshade vegetables like potatoes, peppers, and tomatoes contain solanine, which can worsen inflammation in some individuals with RA. If you find these vegetables cause discomfort, try limiting them or excluding them from your diet.

20. Processed Meats

Processed meats like hot dogs, sausages, and bacon contain high amounts of sodium and preservatives, which can worsen inflammation in individuals with RA. Choose freshly cooked meat instead of processed options.

21. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose are high in chemicals and can contribute to inflammation. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead.

22. Ice Cream

Ice cream is high in sugar and dairy, which can both trigger inflammation in some individuals with RA. If you’re craving a cold treat, try making your own using non-dairy ingredients like coconut milk.

23. Fast Food

Fast food like burgers, fries, and pizza are high in unhealthy fats and refined carbs, which can both worsen inflammation and contribute to weight gain. Avoid fast food as much as possible for a healthier diet.

24. Certain Spices

While spices like ginger and turmeric can actually help reduce inflammation, certain others like paprika and cayenne pepper can worsen inflammation in some individuals with RA. Be mindful of the spices you use and any symptoms they may trigger.

25. Energy Bars

While energy bars may seem like a healthy snack option, many are high in sugar and processed ingredients, which can worsen inflammation. Opt for whole foods like fruit and nuts for a healthier snack option.

26. Condiments

Condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce are often high in sugar and sodium, both of which can worsen inflammation. Choose healthier condiments like mustard or hummus instead.

27. Candies

Candies like jelly beans and gummies are high in sugar and artificial ingredients, which can worsen inflammation and contribute to weight gain. Limit your intake of candy as much as possible for a healthier diet.

28. Margarine

Margarine is high in unhealthy trans fats, which can worsen inflammation and contribute to heart disease. Opt for healthier options like olive oil or avocado instead.

29. Certain Beans

While beans can be a great source of protein and fiber, certain types like kidney beans can worsen inflammation in some individuals with RA. Try rotating your bean options to avoid overconsumption of any one type.

30. Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oils like canola and corn oil are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can worsen inflammation. Opt for healthier oils like olive or avocado oil instead.