Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. It can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility, significantly impacting the quality of life for those living with the condition.

While there is no specific diet that can cure or treat rheumatoid arthritis, certain foods have been shown to exacerbate inflammation and worsen symptoms in some individuals. Here are 30 foods that you may want to avoid if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Processed Foods

Processed foods, including fast food, packaged snacks, and processed meats, are often high in unhealthy trans fats, sugar, and salt. These ingredients can trigger inflammation in the body and may worsen RA symptoms.

2. Red Meat

Red meat, especially when it is processed or high in fat, contains chemicals called purines that can increase inflammation and joint pain. Choose leaner protein sources such as fish, poultry, and plant-based proteins instead.

3. Dairy Products

Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and butter, are known to promote inflammation in some individuals. If you suspect that dairy worsens your RA symptoms, consider eliminating or reducing your intake of these products.

4. Fried Foods

Fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and onion rings, are high in unhealthy fats that can contribute to inflammation and lead to weight gain. Opt for healthier cooking methods like baking, grilling, or steaming instead.

5. Sugary Drinks

Sugary beverages like soda, sweetened teas, and energy drinks are high in added sugars and can contribute to weight gain and inflammation. These drinks provide empty calories without any nutritional value, so it’s best to avoid them.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol can interact with some medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and excessive consumption can worsen inflammation and contribute to liver damage. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and discuss it with your healthcare provider.

7. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, found in diet sodas, sugar-free candies, and certain processed foods, have been associated with increased inflammation and gut health issues in some studies.

It’s best to avoid these additives if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

8. Refined Grains

Refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta made from refined flour, have been stripped of their beneficial nutrients and fiber. They can cause blood sugar spikes and increased inflammation. Opt for whole grains instead.

9. Nightshade Vegetables

Nightshade vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and eggplants, contain a compound called solanine.

Some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis report increased joint pain and inflammation after consuming these vegetables, although more research is needed.

10. Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Sources of omega-6 fatty acids, such as corn, soybean, and sunflower oils, are pro-inflammatory in nature when consumed in excess.

While omega-6 fatty acids are essential, it’s important to maintain a balance with omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

11. High-Sodium Foods

Foods high in sodium, such as processed meats, canned soups, and fast food meals, can contribute to water retention and inflammation. Opt for lower-sodium options or season your food with herbs, spices, and citrus juices instead.

12. Added Sugars

Added sugars, including those found in sweets, pastries, and sugary breakfast cereals, can lead to weight gain and increased inflammation. Check food labels for hidden sources of added sugars and opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits.

13. Shellfish

Shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster can be high in purines, which can trigger inflammation and joint pain in some individuals. If you notice a worsening of symptoms after consuming shellfish, it’s best to avoid them.

14. High-Fat Dairy

High-fat dairy products like whole milk, cream, and ice cream contain saturated fats that can promote inflammation in the body. Choose low-fat or non-dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk instead.

15. Gluten

Research suggests a potential link between rheumatoid arthritis and gluten intolerance or celiac disease in some individuals.

If you suspect gluten worsens your symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider and consider eliminating gluten-containing foods from your diet.

16. Corn Oil

Corn oil is another source of omega-6 fatty acids that, when consumed in excess, can contribute to inflammation. It’s best to choose oils high in monounsaturated fats, such as olive or avocado oil, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

17. Caffeine

Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate, can interfere with sleep quality and worsen inflammation in some individuals. Moderation is key, and it’s best to listen to your body’s response to caffeine.

18. MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)

MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly found in processed foods, snack foods, and restaurant meals. Some people report that consuming MSG worsens their RA symptoms, although more research is needed to establish a definitive link.

19. Artificial Additives

Artificial additives, such as food colorings, preservatives, and flavorings, have been associated with increased inflammation and potential adverse effects on overall health. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods when possible.

20. High-Fructose Corn Syrup

High-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener commonly found in processed foods and beverages, has been linked to inflammation, weight gain, and other health issues. Check food labels and watch out for this ingredient.

21. Peanuts

Some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis report increased joint pain and inflammation after consuming peanuts or peanut butter. If you suspect peanuts worsen your symptoms, it’s best to avoid them and opt for other nut or seed butters.

22. Eggs

Eggs contain a protein called albumin, which some people with rheumatoid arthritis may be sensitive to. If you experience joint pain or other symptoms after consuming eggs, consider eliminating them from your diet.

23. Soft Drinks

Soft drinks, even those without added sugars, can contribute to inflammation due to their acidic nature. These beverages can also lead to weight gain and negatively impact overall health, so it’s best to minimize or avoid them.

24. Corn Syrup

Corn syrup, similar to high-fructose corn syrup, is a sweetener often found in processed foods and beverages. It can contribute to inflammation and should be avoided if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

25. Certain Cooking Oils

Certain cooking oils, such as cottonseed and safflower oil, have a higher omega-6 fatty acid content and can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. Opt for oils with a better balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids.

26. Deli Meats

Deli meats are typically high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. These ingredients can contribute to inflammation and should be limited or avoided if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

27. Trans Fats

Trans fats, found in fried foods, baked goods, and some margarines, are highly inflammatory and should be avoided for overall health. Check food labels for trans fats or partially hydrogenated oils.

28. Wheat

Some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis report improvements in symptoms after eliminating wheat from their diet. Gluten intolerance or sensitivities could be one explanation, so consider discussing this with your healthcare provider.

29. Condiments High in Sugar

Condiments like ketchup, barbecue sauce, and sweet salad dressings are often high in added sugars. These can contribute to inflammation and should be used sparingly or replaced with healthier alternatives.

30. Potatoes

While potatoes can be a source of vitamins and fiber, they are also high on the glycemic index, meaning they can cause blood sugar spikes and inflammation. Opt for other root vegetables instead or eat potatoes in moderation.