Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory condition of the small joints of the feet and hands. This condition affects 1 percent of the population worldwide, including over 1 million Americans, according to 2008 information from the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Some dietary products have anti-inflammatory effects and may benefit inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and are considering changing your diet, talk to a nutritionist first.
The Link Between Diet and RA
The results of a study published in December 1991 in "Clinical Rheumatology" indicate that dietary changes can help improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This was a questionnaire-based study involving 742 patients. Of the participants, 290 were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and the rest were suffering from other forms of inflammatory arthritis. Less pain and stiffness was reported by 46 percent of the participants and 36 percent indicated reduced joint inflammation when changing their diets. Fifteen percent of the participants with rheumatoid arthritis tried fasting -- and 50 percent from this group experienced less pain, swelling and joint stiffness.
Focus on "Anti-inflammatory" Foods
For rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic diseases, eating a diet low in saturated fat and high in fruits and vegetables is essential because fats trigger inflammatory effects in the body, states University of Maryland, Medical Center. Healthy fats are found in fish and in the white meat from chicken or turkey. Olive oil, flax, grape seed and fish oil are good sources of healthy fats and provide omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce joint swelling. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and sprouts because they have anti-inflammatory effects on joints and are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Add more vegetable sources of protein, such as beans, peas, lentils, nuts, spinach and broccoli, to your diet.
Avoid "Inflammatory" Foods
Red meat contains arachadonic acid, a compound that triggers inflammation. Avoiding red meat helps decrease inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, red meat, as well as margarine, fried foods and highly processed foods contain saturated fats and omega-6 fatty acids, which can further stimulate inflammatory responses in the body.
Considerations
Diet modification appears to be beneficial for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Consult a nutritionist to recommend a healthy "anti-inflammatory" diet that provides a good balance of all the nutrients essential for your health. Exercise, especially low-impact weight-bearing exercises help keep your bones and joints strong. Keep in mind that a healthy diet does not replace, and should not be used to replace, any medication for rheumatoid arthritis you are currently taking.
source : livestrong.com
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