By: Sara M. Aksoy
Perhaps one of the most controversial topics surrounding rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the link between diet and symptoms. While many theories about the effects of specific nutrients and RA, to date there is no conclusive evidence proving that a specific diet or certain foods improve or worsen RA’s symptoms.
Some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis find that certain foods tend to exacerbate their symptoms. As with medication, different types of food can affect various individuals’ bodies differently, so the substance that causes one to have more aching joints will not necessarily adversely affect another. Foods that tend to affect RA more often include alcohol, red meat, and members of the nightshade family, which consists of tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers (not black or white pepper). To test if your arthritis symptoms are worsened by a specific food, conduct an elimination diet. Stop eating the foods you plan to test for a fixed period of time then introduce them one at a time. Keep a journal and take note of any changes you experience in your joints: inflammation, pain, or otherwise. If you find that a specific food hurts or helps your joint pain, appropriate dietary changes may positively affect your life.
One nutritional recommendation that can be advised to all individuals with rheumatoid arthritis is to eat a balanced and healthy diet. This includes eating a variety of foods including grains, vegetables, and fruits. Sugars, fat, cholesterol, and alcohol should all be consumed in moderation. Maintenance or improvement of weight can also minimize the presence of symptoms as additional weight can add pressure to the inflamed joint.
While no specific supplements are linked with improvement of symptoms, the medications and chronic inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of malnutrition. The most common deficiencies seen with RA include folic acid, vitamins B6, B12, C, D, and E, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. While it is best to consume these nutrients from diet, supplements are effective at replacing them.
Additionally, many rheumatologists recommend taking fish oil capsules for RA, and studies with mice have shown that in conjunction with vitamin E the oil reduces levels of inflammation. As of yet, however, there is no conclusive study of these effects in humans. Also, talk to your doctor before taking fish oil capsules because they interfere with clotting and may put you at higher risk for a stroke.
The best advice for rheumatoid arthritis is to eat well and stay informed. Listen to your body; if your joints hurt especially badly one morning, think about what you ate the following day and notice if there is a trend in your occurrence of pain. Also stay aware of changes in your body; the sore in your mouth or strange patches on your skin can be signs of vitamin deficiency.
Unfortunately, the effects of diet on rheumatoid arthritis are as unclear as its cause; hopefully a better understanding of RA’s pathology will shed light on better ways to fight the disease.