Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the joints in the body. It is a debilitating condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.

RA can also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes. Although there is no cure for RA, there are many ways to manage symptoms. One of the most effective ways to manage symptoms of RA is through diet.

What to Eat

It is important for people with RA to eat a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods. Nutrient-dense foods help to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly.

The following are some examples of nutrient-dense foods that people with RA should include in their diet:.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation in the body. People with RA should aim to eat a minimum of five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

Some examples of fruits and vegetables that are particularly beneficial for people with RA include:.

Apples
Berries
Broccoli
Carrots
Kale
Spinach
Sweet Potatoes
Tomatoes

Whole Grains

Whole grains are a great source of fiber, which helps to reduce inflammation in the body. People with RA should aim to eat a minimum of three servings of whole grains a day.

Some examples of whole grains that are particularly beneficial for people with RA include:.

Brown Rice
Buckwheat
Millet
Oatmeal
Quinoa
Whole Wheat Bread

Lean Protein

Lean protein is an essential component of a healthy diet. It helps to build and repair tissues in the body. People with RA should aim to eat a minimum of two servings of lean protein a day.

Some examples of lean protein that are particularly beneficial for people with RA include:.

Beans
Chicken
Eggs
Fish
Tofu
Turkey

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, which help to reduce inflammation in the body. People with RA should aim to eat a minimum of one serving of nuts and seeds a day.

Some examples of nuts and seeds that are particularly beneficial for people with RA include:.

Almonds
Chia Seeds
Flaxseeds
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Walnuts

What to Avoid

Just as some foods can help to reduce inflammation in the body, others can make inflammation worse. The following are some examples of foods that people with RA should avoid:.

Sugar

Sugar can cause inflammation in the body. People with RA should avoid foods that are high in sugar, such as candy, soda, and baked goods.

Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in sugar, saturated fat, and trans fats. These foods can cause inflammation in the body. People with RA should avoid processed foods, such as chips, cookies, and frozen dinners.

Red Meat

Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can cause inflammation in the body. People with RA should limit their intake of red meat, and choose lean protein sources, such as chicken and fish, instead.

Alcohol

Alcohol can cause inflammation in the body. People with RA should limit their intake of alcohol, and choose non-alcoholic beverages, such as water or tea, instead.