Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet Plan and Foods To Avoid

Synovitis or the early stage is the stage where the patient experiences mild symptoms like stiffness in the joints and joint pain. The immune system starts attacking the joints in the hands and legs and causes inflammation. The joint lining starts to get damaged at this stage.

Pannus or the moderate stage is the stage where the damage extends from the joint lining to the cartilage that guards the surface of the bones. Cartilages act as cushions for the bones that start thinning at this stage making the joint pain and weakness more severe. The risk of bone erosion increases with damage to joints.

Fibrous Ankylosis or the severe stage is the stage where the bones adjoin to fuse to cause a lack of movement and friction. The damaged area fuses with connective fibrous tissue and causes pain in the joints while moving.

Bony Ankylosis is the stage in which the bones and bone tissue fuse instead of the connective tissue. The pain may subside, but the flexibility reduces, making bending and moving difficult. When the patient is at stage 4, doing normal activities may be troublesome.

Seropositive rheumatoid arthritis is a condition when the blood test positive for the presence of rheumatoid factor. The body produces an immune reaction against normal tissues which causes changes in the molecular structure of proteins. Anti-cyclic Citrullinated peptides (CCPs) are formed in 60-80% of the people diagnosed with seropositive RA.

In Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, the blood tests are negative for the presence of rheumatoid factor. However, certain other tests like X-rays, clinical symptoms, and other laboratory tests can be additionally helpful to assess the condition.

Autoimmune conditions can show a combination of symptoms which can make the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis trickier. Some people with a particular autoimmune disease may show symptoms of another autoimmune condition.
Some of the symptoms of anemia, chronic fatigue syndrome, Lyme disease, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and Sciatica have common overlapping symptoms. Osteoarthritis may also have common symptoms like wear and tear of joints which can be confused with rheumatoid arthritis.

Fried foods and meats are high-fat foods that increase the oxidation of cells in the body due to the presence of advanced glycation end (AGEs) products. Fried foods promote inflammation in the joints and muscles which can aggravate the condition. Try baking/air-frying/grilling/roasting food items instead of deep frying in oil.  

A rise in blood sugar stimulates the synthesis of pro-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. These cytokines act as toxins that worsen inflammation that affects the joints. Sugary foods and refined carbohydrates increase the risk of obesity which pressures your joints. A high intake of sugary beverages raises your risk of inflammation and chronic lifestyle diseases.  

Excessive consumption of salty foods increases blood pressure and the risk of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Salty foods can flare up rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and may affect the health of the kidneys and heart.

Red meats are rich in saturated fats that exacerbate inflammation and lead to obesity. Foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids are not good for rheumatoid arthritis which contributes to inflammation. Cutting down the intake of red meats and swapping it for plant-based foods is beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Processed foods are made with loads of sugar, salt, butter, refined flour, preservatives, and additives that cause inflammation. Processed foods are high in saturated fats, trans fats, and hydrogenated fats that deteriorate the overall health of individuals. These ingredients make the foods unhealthy and increase the risk of lifestyle disorders.

Foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids like sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil, red meats, and packaged foods cause inflammatory reactions in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Consumption in moderate amounts may not impact your health but consistent intake of these foods can lead to chronic illnesses.

Some foods like wheat, barley, and rye are rich in gluten which is difficult for some people to tolerate. When there is a flare-up of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms with the ingestion of gluten-rich foods, it is better to stay away from them.

Watermelon is a rich source of beta-cryptoxanthin that can reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Watermelon also contains lycopene that protects against heart diseases and lowers the prevalence of certain cancers. Watermelon is low-calorie fat-free fruit that aids in proper hydration and weight management.

Papaya contains papain, an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces stiffness, pain, and weakness in the joints. Papaya is low in calories and can be consumed anytime in the day as a healthy snack or mid-day meal. Papaya does not rise your blood sugar levels and hence prevents you from the risk of diabetes.

Grapes are an excellent source of antioxidants, polyphenols, and resveratrol compounds. Resveratrol is an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces the side effects of rheumatoid arthritis.

Avocados contain good amounts of vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory. Including these foods in the diet can reduce the risk of joint problems in rheumatoid arthritis. Avocados increase HDL levels and lower LDL levels and also aid in weight loss which benefits RA.

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants that reduce the CRP (C-Reactive protein) that causes inflammation and flare-up of symptoms of RA. Strawberries also contain folic acid that prevents the side effects of medications/steroids taken for rheumatoid arthritis.

Apples contain phytochemicals that act against inflammation which is the main concern for RA. Apples also contain fiber and vit C that helps to lower cholesterol levels and help in maintaining a healthy weight and prevents the risk of obesity and other problems.

Oranges are a rich source of beta-carotene and antioxidants that lessens inflammation and the effects of free radicals on the body. Consuming a whole fruit is advisable to make the fiber available to the body instead of juicing them which removes all the fiber in them.

Bananas are good sources of magnesium that alleviates arthritis symptoms. Bananas provide a lot of benefits as it is a rich source of potassium and B vitamins. Potassium reduces water retention that maintains a balance between calcium and phosphorus and prevents bone erosion and bone loss.

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, flavonoids, and antioxidants that contains anti-inflammatory effects. Vitamin C boosts the production of collagen which helps in tissue repair and the build-up of healthy ligaments and tendons. Drinking lemon juice increases water intake and prevents dehydration. Lemons have been found to reduce the progression of the disease.

Pumpkin is a rich source of beta carotene that possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of magnesium and other essential minerals that aid in reducing inflammation.

Spinach and other leafy greens are packed with fiber and antioxidants that fight inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Spinach contains Kaempferol, a potent antioxidant that lowers the effects of inflammatory agents related to rheumatoid arthritis.

Pumpkin is a rich source of fiber and essential nutrients that helps to reduce inflammation in the joints. A natural source of beta-carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and magnesium is found in pumpkins.

Mushrooms are an excellent addition to rheumatoid arthritis. It fights inflammation and proves beneficial for gut health. Mushrooms contain l-ergothioneine, an antioxidant that reduces pain in the joints and strengthens your tissues in the joints.

Beetroots contain considerable amounts of nitrates which removes toxins from the body, thus reducing inflammation. The betalains and nitrates make beetroot a perfect choice for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Nitrates in beetroot are effective in reducing high blood pressure and improving heart health.

Carrots are rich in antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lutein which reduces inflammation and pain in the joints. Carrots are high in fiber and low in calories which also aids in weight loss as obesity is a major risk factor for RA.   

Sweet potatoes help in relieving joint pain and inflammation caused due to rheumatoid arthritis as sweet potatoes contain anti-inflammatory compounds. Sweet potatoes are a good source of beta-cryptoxanthin that reduces the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

Allium vegetables like onions, shallots, and garlic have been found to relieve arthritis pain. The sulfur compounds reduce the production of substances that cause inflammation in the body. Diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound found in garlic reduces the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, cabbage, and brussels sprouts contain sulforaphane that blocks the process of inflammation and may slow down cartilage damage. Cruciferous vegetables also play a main role in immune-boosting function.

Bhindi acts as an antioxidant that helps to keep inflammation at bay. Regular consumption of ladies’ fingers fights obesity which is one of the main causes of rheumatoid arthritis.

Plantains are good sources of vitamin C which act as antioxidants to improve your immune system. The potassium and magnesium content of plantains helps in alleviating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The plantain leaves are used traditionally for reducing inflammation.

Green beans are a rich source of fiber and antioxidants that maintains ideal weight, improves heart health, and lowers inflammation. The calcium and vitamin K content of green beans improves bone health. Green beans contain good amounts of folate and potassium that regulates blood pressure and improves inflammation.

Rheumatoid Arthritis cannot be cured completely but treatment and lifestyle changes can reduce the severity of the condition. Treatments can help in alleviating pain and inflammation in the joints and lead an active life. A physiotherapist guides you in preventing injuries while exercising and the ways to protect your joints and muscles.

The best foods to eat for rheumatoid arthritis are citrus fruits, fresh vegetables, whole grains, coldwater fish, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium-rich foods, and healthy oils such as olive oil and cold-pressed oils. Be cautious not to consume calcium-rich foods with foods containing oxalates like spinach, beetroot, and sweet potatoes.

The natural remedy for Rheumatoid Arthritis is with the help of a healthy diet and physical exercises. Regular physical exercise can help in reducing the disability and increase the strength and flexibility of the joints and muscles.
Yoga and mild exercises have beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric, ginger, and green tea can be regularly included in the diet that contains anti-inflammatory properties.

Rheumatoid Arthritis can be reduced with adequate rest, exercises, heat therapies, and cold packs. The hot and cold packs reduce swelling around the joints and ease the pain to some extent. Massaging the affected areas may improve blood circulation through the joints and reduce swelling. Stress management can help you relax that aids in lowering the pain.

Vitamins and calcium are vital nutrients to maintain bone and joint health. Vitamin D promotes the immune system and curbs inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Calcium is important for the maintenance of healthy joints and the prevention of loss of bone density.

The first signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis are pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles in the hands, legs, and back. The person may feel anemic and fatigued. There may be lumps or redness in the skin. A dry mouth and prickling sensation can be some of the warning signs of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis can cause physical disability, and pain and put a person at risk of chronic illness. Symptoms may flare up as the condition progresses. Joint replacement therapy and certain surgeries can extend the life expectancy of a person. Early treatment, proper sleep, and an active lifestyle can help to reverse the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis can be treated at home by shifting to a healthier diet, adequate rest, losing extra weight, getting good sleep, stress management, and exercises that can make your muscles and joints recover from stiffness and pain. Applying heat can reduce the pain and relax your painful muscles.

Rheumatoid Arthritis cannot be reversed back to its original form but the severity of the condition can be reduced with the help of medications, diet, and lifestyle factors. Treatments can slow down the progression of the disease and makes you comfortable with daily chores. Regular exercises may increase your mobility and function.