Rheumatoid arthritis is a medical condition that causes joint pain and inflammation in your feet or hands. Rheumatoid arthritis damages the joint lining, which can subsequently contribute to bone erosion and limb deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis treatment aims to reduce progression of the disease, pain and inflammation. A healthy diet is important for rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits supply ample amounts of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, which help your body defend itself from disease and infections. Vegetables and fruits containing vitamin C are important since rheumatoid arthritis is often linked with vitamin C deficiency. For the broadest nutritional benefits, consume a variety of vegetables and fruits. Valuable sources of vitamin C include strawberries, papaya, cantaloupe, kiwi, tomatoes, red bell peppers, oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, citrus juices, spinach, brussels sprouts, broccoli and sweet potatoes.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are food products that have not been stripped of nutritious parts of the plant, which means it has more fiber, vitamins and minerals than refined grain products. Whole grains contain beneficial amounts of B vitamins including vitamin B6 and folate. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, vitamin B12, folate and B6 deficiencies are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Replace enriched carbohydrate sources, such as sugar and white bread, with whole grain foods for improved wellness. Examples of nutrient-rich whole grains include wild rice, whole wheat, oats, bulgar, millet, brown rice, popcorn and quinoa. Whole grain cold cereals and fortified oatmeal provide rich amounts of B vitamins. Check food nutrition labels to ensure whole grains are incorporated as the primary ingredients.
Fatty Fish, Walnuts and Flaxseed
Fatty fish, walnuts and flaxseed provide healthy amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats that may decrease arthritis inflammation and improve your cardiovascular health. According to John Hopkins Medicine, since omega-3 supplements sometimes cause side effects, fatty fish may provide the most health benefits. Examples of fatty fish include flounder, tuna, salmon, lake trout, herring, mackerel and halibut. Fish also provide nutrients and proteins, such as vitamin D and calcium, which are vital for bone health. Walnuts, ground flaxseed, walnut oil and flaxseed oil provide additional omega-3 fat benefits and make healthy additions to yogurt, cereals, salads and baked goods.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health: Arthritis and Nutrition
- Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine: Foods and Arthritis
- Arthritis Today: Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: RA and Food Allergies
- Joy Bauer, R.D., M.S., C.D.N: Fight arthritis with these foods, Oct 2007
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Role of Nutrition in Rheumatoid Arthritis
