Psoriatic Arthritis Diet: Foods To Eat And Avoid

Anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats-rich foods

Since joint inflammation is a major symptom of psoriatic arthritis consuming foods rich in anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids can help decrease inflammation.

Omega 3 fats are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that have anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the disease severity of psoriatic arthritis. A study showed that individuals with psoriatic arthritis, who received omega 3 PUFA supplements for 24 weeks, resulted in lowering disease activity, joint redness and tenderness [4].

Here is a list of foods that are rich in anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats:

• Fatty fishes like salmon and tuna
• Walnuts
• Flaxseeds
• Chia seeds
• Edamame
• Hemp seeds
• Seaweed and algae

AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) Diet: Benefits, Foods To Eat And Avoid

High-fibre whole grains

Studies have shown the association between psoriatic disease and obesity. So, people with psoriatic arthritis should manage their weight and control their blood sugar levels [5].

Whole grains are loaded with fibre, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent a spike in blood sugar levels [6].

Here is list of whole grains that are high in fibre:

• Whole oats
• Whole wheat
• Quinoa
• Brown rice
• Wild rice
• Corn

Antioxidant-rich foods

Consuming foods rich in antioxidants can help decrease chronic inflammation by preventing damage linked to harmful oxidative stress [7] [8].

Here is a list of foods that are good sources of antioxidants:

• Dark leafy green vegetables
• Fresh fruits
• Nuts
• Dark chocolate
• Dried ground spices
• Tea and coffee

Foods To Eat And Avoid For Arthritis

Foods To Avoid For Psoriatic Arthritis

Red meat

Consumption of fatty red meat can increase inflammation, weight gain and worsen psoriasis symptoms. Also meat is a good source of protein, so you may not want to decrease your intake of protein.

Avoid eating red meat and instead eat chicken, fish, nuts, beans and legumes as they are good sources of protein and will help in managing psoriatic arthritis.

Processed foods

Processed foods have a lot of sugar, salt and fat and lack in essential nutrients. Studies have shown that processed foods trigger the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis [9]. So, it is best to avoid eating them.

14 Best Foods That Help Fight Inflammation

Dairy products

People with psoriatic arthritis may have an intolerance to dairy products. A study showed that dairy may serve as a triggering factor for psoriatic arthritis [10].

Other foods that should be completely avoided are:

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Alcohol
• Fried foods
• White bread and white rice
• Candy

Diets You May Consider For Psoriatic Arthritis

There are some types of diets that are thought to be beneficial for people living with psoriatic arthritis. But there is limited evidence to show that these diets actually improve psoriatic arthritis. Let's have a look at these diets.

• Paleo diet

The paleo diet, also known as the caveman diet, includes choosing healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and fish and excludes processed foods and dairy. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, certain diets including the paleo diet can help in weight management and may help improve psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

• Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet emphasises on consuming foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and olive oil and avoids consuming red meat, processed foods and dairy. Fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, nuts and olive oil possess anti-inflammatory properties.

• Anti-inflammatory diet

An anti-inflammatory diet includes foods such as olive oil, fruits, green leafy vegetables, nuts and fatty fishes which may help reduce inflammation, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.

• Weight-loss diet

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis increase the risk of other health complications like obesity. So, individuals with psoriatic arthritis need to manage their weight. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, your weight-loss diet should include foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, fish, beans, eggs, chicken and nuts.

• Gluten-free diet

People who are sensitive to gluten or who have celiac disease should opt for a gluten-free diet as this may reduce the severity of psoriatic arthritis flare-ups [11].

To Conclude...

Making healthy dietary changes can help alleviate the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. However, make sure to talk to your doctor about choosing a dietary pattern that's right for you to help you manage your symptoms better.