Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. It typically affects more than one joint, and in advance cases, can also damage internal organs. Women are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, which has no known cure. Some health professionals suggest that avoiding or eating certain foods may help to improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, consult with your rheumatologist before making any changes to your diet.
Possible Causes and Other Symptoms
While there is no known cause of rheumatoid arthritis, it's possible that genes, environment and hormones play a role in the development of the condition, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Besides pain, inflammation and stiffness in your joints, symptoms can include weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever and swollen glands. Poor joint function, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet and joint deformation can also occur.
Foods that Make RA Worse
There is debate about whether some foods can make rheumatoid arthritis worse or trigger flares. However, there is evidence that what you eat can affect your symptoms. For instance, in a study published in September 2006 in "Gut," a group of researchers from Norway looked at food antibodies --- proteins your immune system produces when it detects a harmful substance --- in the gut. Your immune system can mistake food as a harmful substance. The resulting antibodies trigger reactions that can cause symptoms. The study indicates that people with rheumatoid arthritis have higher amounts of antibodies to proteins from cereal, codfish, cow's milk, eggs and pork than those who do not have the condition. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. If you notice that these foods or others aggravate your symptoms, try eliminating them to see if your arthritis improves.
Foods that Help
Increasing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation. The omega-3 fats eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid are found in coldwater fish such as salmon, halibut, tuna and mackerel. Another omega-3 fat, alpha-linolenic acid, is found in foods such as flaxseed and walnut and their oils, as well as dark leafy vegetables.
Supplements
Adding certain types of supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to your diet might also provide relief. Avocado soybean unsaponifiables, natural extracts from avocado and soybeans, help to slow the deterioration of cartilage and to repair cartilage. Also, ginger contains active compounds, which reduce pain and inhibit the inflammatory chemicals tumor necrosis factor- alpha and cyclooxygenase-2, or COX-2 --- both of which contribute to rheumatoid arthritis.
source : livestrong.com
No comments:
Post a Comment