Is there a diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis? There may be helpful diets for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Someone is always promoting a diet for something. It is important to remember that no diet works for everyone and claims to the contrary should be viewed with at least a bit of skepticism.

Most of us know that what we eat affects our health. Diet plays a role in most diseases. No one is certain what causes the immune system reactions that lead to inflammation and pain in otherwise healthy joints. But, of all the things that a person can try to relieve the symptoms, dietary changes are likely the safest. At least as long as the diet is healthy, well-balanced and will not lead to nutritional deficiencies. Here we have accumulated some tips that may be helpful.

Herbs & Spices

There is every reason to include certain herbs and spices in diets for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Aspirin was originally derived from a plant (willow bark) and the compound salicylic acid is found in herbs such as meadowsweet. Also, many herbs and spices have been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity and others support healthy immune system function.

It would be impossible to list all of the herbs and spices that could be helpful in an article of this length. Books have been written on similar subjects. But, based on scientific evidence and a history of traditional use, two spices that should be included in a diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis are detailed below.

Celery is a very common vegetable. As a spice, celery seeds, which add a slightly bitter flavor to a dish, may be purchased as whole seeds, in ground form or in combination with salt. However, in diets for people with rheumatoid arthritis, salt may increase fluid retention and aggravate swelling, particularly in the hands and feet.

Chopped celery is combined with onions and bell peppers in Creole and Cajun cooking or with onions and carrots for a French taste. And of course, it can be eaten raw or used in soups salads or stew. Celery seeds have been used to relieved pain since 30AD and likely before. Scientific evaluation has shown anti-inflammatory activity that could reduce joint deterioration.

Turmeric, a common ingredient in curry, has a spicy peppery flavor. The reason it is recommended in a diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis is because of a compound it contains known as curcumin. In 2005, the Wall Street Journal described it as a “common Indian spice that stirs hope”. The National Institutes of Health is currently conducting clinical trials concerning its use for treating several types of cancer, as well as Alzheimer’s.

In a 2006 issue of “Arthritis & Rheumatism”, a study was published showing that curcumin effectively reduced joint inflammation and pain. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity similar to COX-2 inhibiting drugs.

Fruits, Vegetables & Whole Grains

Including fruits, vegetables and whole grains is just as important in diets for people with rheumatoid arthritis, as they are in every person’s diet. These natural foods, when minimally processed, provide a large number of nutrients and relatively low calories. They can be particularly important if weight is an issue. Being overweight increases stress on the joints, which increases pain. In addition, all fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain at least a small amount of anti-inflammatory activity.

Fish & Fish Oils

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and fish oils may be the most important factor in a diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis. Recent studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids not only reduce inflammation, but inhibit the processes that cause inflammation in the first place.

In clinical studies of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who were given 1000mg of fish oil on a daily basis for 4-8 weeks, there was a reduction in pain, number of swollen joints, number of painful joints, minutes of morning stiffness and the need for pain relieving medications. Any promoted diets for people with rheumatoid arthritis that do not suggest fish oil supplements or at least fish 3-5 times per week will not be the most effective in reducing pain and inflammation.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center’s website:

“Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.”

Overall, a diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis would likely improve the health of anyone who survives on fast food and soft drinks. To decrease the risk of chronic and life threatening diseases, the major health organizations recommend a diet that is low in fat and includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meat and low fat dairy products.

Dan Ho is editor of http://www.omega-3-fish-oil-guide.com/Fish_oil_arthritis.html Visit us now for tips on choosing a high quality omega 3 fish oil supplement.

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