More than 2.5 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease that damages the tissues that connect bones and joints. Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, loss of function and eventual, long-term joint damage are the most common effects. The condition typically strikes similar joints on both sides of the body--most often the fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet. Because the severity of symptoms can vary from day to day, there is a belief that certain foods may cause the condition to flare up or worsen. Scientists say there is no definitive proof of this, although nutrition can play a role in how patients manage the condition.
The Facts
Researchers have long studied the relationship between food and arthritis. Some studies suggest eating two or more weekly servings of oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel may help reduce joint inflammation, but there is no concrete evidence. What scientists do agree on, however, is that patients with rheumatoid arthritis can benefit from eating a balanced, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in fats and salt. In addition to giving you the vitamins and nutrients your body needs, a healthy diet helps you maintain a healthy weight, avoiding the added joint stress and inflammation that excess weight can cause.
Malnutrition Risk
Side effects of several rheumatoid arthritis medications can lead to a decreased appetite or gastrointestinal problems, which may cause a person to shy away from food. Poor nutrition and vitamin and mineral deficiencies are often the results. Many rheumatoid arthritis patients, in fact, suffer from lower-than-recommended levels of vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium and zinc. Although the best way to ingest needed vitamins and minerals is through food, your doctor may recommend you take a daily multivitamin or certain dietary supplements.
Food Hypersensitivity
Studies show that some RA patients believe certain foods--dairy products and processed meats, especially--worsen symptoms or cause the disease to flare up. However, there is no widespread or concrete evidence to back up this claim or to say it's applicable to all people with the disease. Talk with your doctor if you believe your joint inflammation worsens after you eat certain foods. You may want to avoid that food for a while and monitor the results.
Other Management Techniques
Successfully managing arthritis requires following your doctor's recommended treatments and living an RA-friendly lifestyle. You can help reduce the impact of flare-ups and keep them under control by: performing regular, moderate exercise; listening to your body and resting when you're tired or in pain; getting enough sleep; avoiding caffeine and alcohol; and identifying and managing stressors.
Expert Insight
Because RA is a progressive condition that can, in severe cases, lead to severe disabilities, depression is common among RA patients. This can also lead to a decreased appetite and problems with eating and nutrition. Discuss the correlation between food and RA with your doctor, asking whether changing your eating habits might help you manage the disease.
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