Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet And Osteoarthritis

Early medical intervention helps to recover fats form the condition. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis depends on the type of joint, occupation, general health, age, and disease activity. Diet influences the condition of rheumatoid arthritis to a great extent. A healthy and balanced diet which is low in saturated fat, refined carb, meat and sugar and rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits and fiber is recommended. Such a diet aids in the prevention and control of rheumatoid arthritis. Research reveals the beneficial effects of certain foods, such as fish oil and oranges on rheumatoid arthritis. A balanced diet is necessary with maintenance of body weight. Excessive weight, results in more strain on the weight bearing joints, thereby resulting in inflammation, stiffness and joint pain. Abstinence from caffeinated beverages helps. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Herbs such as turmeric, licorice and ginger are effective, due to their anti inflammatory properties. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E, in addition to selenium and zinc, which are useful. Decrease in inflammation and pain is seen to be associated with a reduced fat intake.

Diet And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fat digestion results in certain by products that increase inflammation. Healthy fats are helpful, some of them being omega 3 fatty acid (present in fish). Fatty acids help in the formation of thromboxane, leukotriene and prostaglandins, which in turn decrease the inflammation. Foods with arachidonic acid are not recommended as they form harmful substances that worsen inflammation. Some of the foods that contain arachidonic acid are animal foods such as dairy products and meat. Cold water fish such as herring, salmon, mackerel and sardine are abundant in eicosapentaenoic acid, which are beneficial in the reduction of inflammation. Cod liver oil is also an excellent source of eicosapentaenoic acid, which prevents inflammation. Supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine helps to decrease the joint pain. Keep a track of the calories, as obesity worsens the condition. Increase the calcium and protein in the diet.

Allergy or hypersensitivity to particular foods worsens the symptoms, by suppressing the immune system. Allergy or intolerance to foods such as milk, corn, wheat, peanut, meat and dairy products, need to be corrected or avoided. Cutting out on foods such as egg plant, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers prove beneficial in many individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Other techniques involve usage of hot and cold compress and regular exercise. Cold packs desensitize the pain in the affected area, whereas hot compress improves circulation and thus reduces pain.