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Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic inflammatory disorder that attacks synovial joints, which include major joints like the wrist, knee, elbow, shoulder and hips. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation to tissues such as tendons, ligaments and muscles near the joint. It may also affect other organs of the body. While the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still unknown, environment factors seem to play an important role in causing this disease. The symptoms differ based on the degree of tissue inflammation.
There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis but you certainly reduce inflammation and pain in an effort to maximize joint function.
A good diet for rheumatoid arthritis is one of the best ways to prevent and control this condition. Here are a few rheumatoid arthritis diet tips and nutrition plans for overcoming rheumatoid arthritis:
- Eat from all basic food groups—cereals, breads, meats, fruits, vegetables and dairy. These contain all essential nutrients to maintain good health.
- Reduce the intake of sugar and salt. Sugar gives little nutrition and excess calories. Too much salt can contribute to high blood pressure and other heart diseases.
- Avoid fried and starchy food.
- Cut down on fatty foods. This will help decrease the pain and inflammation that is caused due to rheumatoid arthritis. Fatty foods lead to weight gain and an increase in cholesterol in your blood and thus lead to other complications.
- Foods that are acidic in nature should be avoided. These include alcohol, berries, refined wheat, fatty foods, tea, and coffee. Alcohol is a strict no-no, as it can deplete body of vitamins and minerals, besides being very high in calories.
- Increase the intake of omega 3 fatty acids in your daily diet. Food that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids are soya bean oil, salmon oil, walnuts, walnuts oil, avocado, and avocado oil.
- A small amount of garlic consumed on a daily basis has been proven to improve your immune system and prevent inflammation.
- Include at least two servings of fresh yellow and green vegetables in your diet daily. They contain beta carotene, vitamin C and natural antioxidants which help in reducing cell damage.
- Avoid staying up till late. Mental tensions such as anxiety, worry and fear also worsen the condition. Regulate your sleeping time and avoid getting too stressed.
A well balanced nutritious diet is important to maintain good health. Regular exercise keeps the movement of joints active and generates the lubrication required for them. Obese people are more prone to this disease, as the extra body weight puts a lot of stress on bones and joints. Keep your weight under control. Remember to follow the medication prescribed by your doctor. Even if you opt to treat your rheumatoid arthritis naturally, maintain regular visits to your rheumatologist to avoid serious complications.
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