Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease in which the body's immune system essentially attacks the tissues around its own joints. A proper diet can help relieve arthritis symptoms. As you read on, you will learn what foods you can and cannot eat if you have RA.
Steps
Step 1. Take fish oil supplements
Recently, it was discovered that our bodies convert DHA (docosahexaenoic acid - a polyunsaturated fatty acid) found in fish oil into a substance that helps reduce inflammation without suppressing the immune system. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any supplements to your diet.
Step 2. Supplements with vitamins A, C and D3
Vitamins A and C are antioxidants that can prevent joint damage that can cause pain in RA. Vitamin D has been shown to have positive effects on the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties. Again, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any supplements to your diet.
Step 3. Eat a balanced diet
Include a variety of healthy carbohydrates, fats, and proteins with every meal.
Step 4. Drink plenty of purified water
Water will cleanse the body and promote all the normal processes in your body.
Step 5. Eat fresh, whole foods
Highlight brightly colored fruits and vegetables - pumpkin, greens, sweet potatoes, and blueberries.
Step 6. Eat less protein, especially animal protein
Include plant-based sources of protein in your diet, such as beans. People with autoimmune diseases are better off following a low-protein diet. If you eat 2000 calories a day, then only 400-600 should come from protein, especially animal sources.
Step 7. Limit your intake or avoid processed foods altogether
They contain many harmful additives that can worsen RA. When buying packaged foods, be sure to read the label, and if you see that the ingredient list is mostly additives and not real food, then put the product back on the shelf!
Step 8. Maintain a healthy weight
This will reduce inflammation in the body as well as reduce stress on the joints.
Step 9. Drink white or green tea
Both have beneficial phytochemical and antioxidant properties.
Step 10. Cut back on sugary foods
These include soft drinks and other sweets with added sugar.
Step 11. Avoid foods containing high fructose corn syrup
This ubiquitous, laboratory-made supplement can put a lot of strain on the liver and make it difficult for you to maintain a healthy weight.
Step 12. Eat less saturated fat, which is found in meat and dairy products
Concentrate on omega-3 foods like salmon, sardines, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Step 13. Avoid margarine and other trans fats
These unhealthy fats, found in fried foods and foods with hydrogenated oils, contribute to inflammation.
Step 14. Add avocado to your diet
It contains many healthy monounsaturated fats.
Step 15. Cook with olive oil
For an anti-inflammatory diet, it is best to choose olive oil from all oils.
Step 16. Take a gluten sensitivity test
You can also simply limit processed foods made from wheat, which make rheumatoid arthritis worse.
Step 17. Add fiber to your diet
You should eat 35-40 grams per day.
Step 18. If possible, limit your exposure to insecticides and buy organic produce grown without pesticides
These chemicals can lead to an exacerbation of RA.