Diet with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - indications and prohibited products

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. A properly balanced diet can play a key role in relieving symptoms and supporting the overall health of patients with RA. It is therefore worth looking at what food products can have a positive effect on the course of this disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis and diet

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory disease that mainly attacks joints. Most often it applies to middle -aged people, but it can also occur in younger patients. Characteristic symptoms of RA are pain, swelling, joint stiffness and general fatigue. In the case of this disease, the immune system attacks its own tissues, which leads to chronic inflammation. Although the diet is not able to cure the RA, its proper balance can help to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life. Good eating habits can support the immune system, reducing inflammation and supporting body weight control, which is extremely important for people from RA.

What not to eat at RA?

Some food products may increase inflammation in the body, which leads to deterioration of RA symptoms. Below are products that should be limited or eliminated from the diet of people with rheumatoid arthritis:

1. Simple sugars and highly processed products

The consumption of large amounts of simple sugars and highly processed products can lead to an increase in insulin levels, which in turn can cause inflammation. It is worth avoiding sweet drinks, sweets, fast food and "junk food" snacks.

2. saturated and trans fats

Saturated fats, present mainly in red, butter and full -fat dairy products, may increase the risk of inflammation. Trans fats, which are found in many processed products, can also increase inflammation. It is recommended to avoid such products as margarines, confectionery and fast food.

3. Sodium glutamate (MSG)

Sodium glutamate, used as a flavor amplifier, can contribute to the deterioration of RA symptoms in some people. It is found in many processed foods and "instant" dishes.

4. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in the level of uric acid in the body, which may exacerbate inflammatory symptoms. People with RA should limit alcohol consumption to a minimum.

What helps to alleviate RA symptoms? The most important rules of the diet with rheumatoid arthritis

Increasing the consumption of some nutrients can help to alleviate RA symptoms. Here are some important diet rules for people from RA:

1. Diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, present in fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines), flax seeds, chia and walnuts, have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They can help reduce the pain and stiffness of the joints.

2. Eating antioxidants

Antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, beta-carotene and selenium can help in the fight against oxidative stress, which contributes to inflammation. Vegetables and fruits, especially those with intense colors (red peppers, berries, spinach) are rich in antioxidants.

3. High fiber intake

Fiber, present in whole grain products, vegetables and fruits, can help regulate blood sugar levels and support intestinal health. Healthy intestines are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system.

4. Mediterranean diet

Mediterranean diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, fish, olive oil and whole grain products, is often recommended for people from RA due to its anti -inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that people using this diet can experience a reduction in RA symptoms.

RA - diet and menu for 7 days

Below is an example menu for 7 days, which can be suitable for people from RA:

Day 1

Breakfast: Porridge with walnuts, berries and chia seeds. Lunch: Salad of kale, chickpeas, avocado and roasted pumpkin seeds with olive oil. Dinner: Grilled salmon with baked vegetables (broccoli, carrots, peppers). Snacks: Carrots with hummus, apple.

Day 2

Breakfast: Smoothie made of spinach, bananas, almonds and chlorella. Lunch: Lentil soup with tomatoes and herbs. Dinner: Baked cod with potatoes and sauerkraut salad. Snacks: A handful of nuts, pear.

Day 3

Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado and egg in a T -shirt. Lunch: Quinoa with grilled vegetables and Tahini dressing. Dinner: Musks stewed in white wine with garlic and parsley. Snacks: Natural yogurt with honey, blueberries.

Day 4

Breakfast: Porridge with peaches, almonds and flax seeds. Lunch: Greek quinoa salad, feta, olives and cucumber. Dinner: Stewed shrimps with garlic, chili and spinach. Snacks: Fresh vegetables with yogurt, mandarin.

Day 5

Breakfast: Almond milk, strawberry, banana and spinach cocktail. Lunch: Soup with sweet and carrot cream with ginger. Dinner: Baked turkey fillet with millet and beetroot salad. Snacks: Sunflower seeds, kiwi.

Day 6

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach, tomatoes and feta cheese. Lunch: Vegetable curry with chickpeas and brown rice. Dinner: Tofu marinated in soy sauce with stir-fry vegetables. Snacks: Brazilian nuts, orange.

Day 7

Breakfast: Greek yoghurt with granola, chia seeds and honey. Lunch: Baked sweet potatoes with Pinto and Guacamole beans. Dinner: Grilled swordfish with lamb's salad and cherry tomatoes. Snacks: Cashews, grapes.

Supplementation and other dietary support methods at RA

Properly selected dietary supplements can significantly reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics and antioxidants are just some of the methods that can benefit people suffering from RA. At the same time, the introduction of a balanced diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and whole grains can support the treatment process and mitigate the symptoms of the disease.

Omega-3 supplementation

Omega-3 acids are necessary in the diet of people from RA, and their supplementation can be helpful, especially for people who do not regularly consume fish. Dosage should be consulted with a doctor or dietitian.

Vitamin D

Most people with RA have vitamin D deficiencies, which is important for bone health and the functioning of the immune system. Vitamin D supplementation should be carried out after consulting a doctor.

Probiotics

The use of probiotics can support intestinal health, which is important for people with RA, because intestinal health has a significant impact on the condition of the immune system. Probiotics can be taken in the form of supplements or by consuming fermented food products such as yogurt, kefir, silage.

Curcumin

Curcumin, an active turmeric component, has strong anti -inflammatory properties. Curcume supplementation can be beneficial, but it is important to use it in a form that increases bioavailability (e.g. in combination with piperine).

This must be remembered with the RA diet

Compliance with appropriate eating habits is crucial for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Attention should be paid to the consumption of anti -inflammatory nutrients, while avoiding foods that may intensify inflammation. The wide presence of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and sources of healthy fats will make the diet more friendly to the joints.

Sources

Falasca K, Mangifest R, Vecchiet J, et al. Influence of diet on rheumatoid arthritis. Biomed Res Int. 2014; 2014: 581812. DOI: 10.1155/2014/581812 Pattison DJ, Symmons DP, Lunt M, et al. Dietary Risk Factors for the Development of Inflammarators PolyArthritis: Evidence for A Role of High Level of Red Meat Consumction. Arthritis rheum. 2004; 50 (12): 3804-3812. DOI: 10.1002/Article 20731 Calder PC. Omega-3 fatty acids and inflamators processes. Nutrients. 2010; 2 (3): 355-374. DOI: 10.3390/NU2030355