Rheumatoid arthritis diet: Do certain foods worsen symptoms?

Can certain foods worsen rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?

- Patsy / Tennessee

Answer

Because the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis vary from one day to the next, it may seem reasonable to think that the foods you eat might affect your symptoms. Although there's no definitive evidence that any particular foods have an effect on joint pain or inflammation, some research suggests that oranges and certain fish oils may reduce joint inflammation in some people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, more research is needed to assess this possible benefit.

If you believe a certain food increases your arthritis symptoms, there's no harm in omitting it from your diet to see if it helps. But don't exclude whole food groups or large numbers of foods without consulting a registered dietitian or your doctor.

It's important to eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight if you have rheumatoid arthritis. Excess weight puts increased stress on your weight-bearing joints, increasing joint pain, stiffness and inflammation.

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