Foods To Fight Against Rheumatoid Arthritis

By Tanushree Kulkarni

Monday, December 14, 2015, 9:35 [IST]

Inflammation is the body’s way of protecting itself from harmful bacteria and virus. It is the body’s way of removing irritants and damaged cells. In rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation starts to get out of control and can thus cause an immense pain to the patient.

There are some foods that are rich in saturated fats and sugars and can increase inflammation, increase the chances of heart diseases and cause an overall damage to the body. Unfortunately, there is no food or diet that can totally curb inflammation.

But, there are some food items that can reduce inflammation and keep morning stiffness and soreness in check.

Foods items such as olive oil, veggies, fishes, etc, are excellent for the well-being of our body. Here is the list of food items that you should include in your diet, in case you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Add these food items in your diet today to ensure the well-being of your body, in case you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Fish

According to the experts, food items rich in omega-3 fatty acids can lower inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fishes can cut down on bad cholesterol levels. Rheumatoid arthritis can also put you at a greater risk of heart diseases. Therefore, eating good cholesterol can help you keep your heart healthy. Fishes such as salmon and anchovies are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating fish twice a week goes a long way in keeping your heart healthy and safe.

Grains

Studies have shown that consuming whole grains in comparison to white bread, rice or pasta can reduce inflammation drastically. Fibre content in the whole wheat grains can reduce the harmful effects of inflammation.

Greens

According to the experts, vitamin E found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, methi protects the body from inflammatory molecules. Green leafy veggies, also packed with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron and phytochemicals, can help in fighting inflammatory diseases.

Nuts

Nuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E that help in fighting inflammation effectively. Almond and walnuts, in particular, are a great source of these vitamins. Most of the nuts are also rich in antioxidants that help to maintain and fight the damages caused by inflammation. So, make sure to include nuts in your daily diet to keep inflammation at bay.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene that helps in reducing inflammation of the body drastically. Cooked tomatoes are a greater source of lycopene than raw ones. So, make sure to include tomatoes in your diet.

Olive Oil

It is a little known fact that a Mediterrian diet is great for those suffering from inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. Olive oil, which is a major part of the Mediterranean diet, is good for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The compound found in olive oil, which lends it its taste, is as effective as taking painkillers in the body.

Berries

Fruits are a great way to keep inflammation caused in rheumatoid arthritis at bay. Did you know that berries are a great source of anti-inflammatory properties? Anthocyanins, which lends it its colour, is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, these foods can effectively cure inflammatory-related disorders. According to the studies by trusted experts, blueberries can help fight an intestinal inflammation.

So, the best way to fight rheumatoid arthritis and keep inflammation in check is to adopt a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, include veggies, fruits and grains that are rich sources of these.