Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term chronic pain condition that affects not only the body's joints, but its tissues and organs as well. While there are many medications that treat the pain of rheumatoid arthritis, making some lifestyle changes can also help RA sufferers better cope with their condition. These include exercise and diet.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. Unlike the more typical osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis generally begins earlier in life and affects the joints from the inside. It often affects the smaller joints, such as those in the hands, wrists and feet. RA is characterized by morning stiffness, weakness and, over time, joint deformities. In addition to affecting the body's joints, it also affects many of the major organs. Other symptoms of RA include fatigue and appetite loss.
Diet and Rheumatoid Arthritis
What you eat may not only affect your condition, but your condition may also have an impact on what you eat. According to The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, people with rheumatoid arthritis are often at a greater risk for malnutrition than the average person. In addition to the appetite loss that often goes along with RA, many medications can also decrease a person's desire for food. When taken for a long period of time, certain pain medications can also affect the way a person with RA absorbs nutrients: Deficiencies in folic acid, vitamin C and many of the B vitamins are all fairly common in the RA population. Some people with RA who cannot get adequate nutrients from their diet may be advised to take supplements to make up the difference and to avoid further medical complications.
Weight Loss and RA
While some people with rheumatoid arthritis may be overweight, which can increase joint strain, for many, the opposite is true. Weight loss is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. According to PubMed Health, chronic inflammation, such as that experienced by people with RA, increases the resting metabolic rate. In other words, people with RA burn more calories at rest than they used to. Combined with the general appetite loss that often accompanies the disease, you can see how weight loss happens.
General Advice
The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center recommends that people with RA follow the same dietary guidelines promoted for the average person. These include eating a variety of foods, including plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains and reducing both sugar and alcohol intake. While some promote elimination diets and fasting for RA treatment, these can both be dangerous if not done under the guidance of a physician or experienced nutritionist. There is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that fish oil can improve arthritis symptoms over time, though there is little scientific proof; however, fish do make up part of a healthy diet and may benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis.
