Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis that leads to swelling, stiffness, pain and loss of joint function. Although RA can occur in any joint, your wrists and fingers are the most commonly affected. Symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, red or swollen joints, and limited joint mobility. There is no cure for RA. However, treatments may help slow, stop, or relieve the damage and can include medications, surgery, and certain lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals may also be helpful in relieving and coping with symptoms. Consult with your health care provider for his opinion.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may play a role in RA relief. Research has indicated that vitamin E -- combined with standard drugs for RA -- may help decrease pain symptoms better than the sole use of standard drugs. More studies are required to establish any benefit. In addition to a supplement, vitamin E can be found in foods such as almonds, nut butters, spinach, avocado, and soybean oil.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin that may also be helpful for relief from RA symptoms. If you take the drug methotrexate for RA, you may require extra folic acid. This is because methotrexate acts to alter your ability to absorb folic acid. Research has also indicated that folic acid can help decrease side effects associated with methotrexate. Consult your doctor before taking these supplements. In addition to a supplement, you can obtain folic acid from foods including dark leafy greens, dried beans, peas, nuts, fruits, and fortified breads and cereals.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral that you may find beneficial for RA symptom relief. Research has indicated that people with arthritis have a low intake of selenium. Findings are inconclusive and more studies are needed on whether you can benefit from selenium supplementation. You can find this mineral in food sources such as Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, cod, eggs, oatmeal, brown rice and walnuts.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is an abundant mineral in your body. This mineral helps maintain healthy bones, teeth and kidneys. If you are deficient in this mineral, you can experience bone pain, stiff joins, fatigue, and weakness. Therefore, increasing your intake of phosphorus may help relieve symptoms of painful joints and fatigue associated with RA. In addition to a supplement, you can find this mineral in foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements to see if they can be of benefit to you.
