Foods That May Help Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that is caused by an autoimmune disorder that results with swollen painful joints, stiffness and fatigue. People with rheumatoid arthritis often remain undiagnosed until it would be too painful to actually move and they would have to see their doctors for it. Sometimes, when in chronic pain, arthritic sufferers would have no more appetite to eat properly. However, nutrition should be encouraged so as to keep the body healthy and prevent pain from exacerbating.

Are there foods that lessen my arthritic pain? In rheumatoid arthritis, there has been no established specific group of foods that have been pinned to help abate rheumatoid arthritis pain. However, studies show that supplementation with Omega-3-Complex has increased joint function as well as it lowers bad cholesterol. This good fats can be found in fishes, soy, canola oil, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts. Calcium-rich products are also great for maintaining healthy bones and joints. Calcium can be primarily found in milk, cheese and yogurt. It has been known that children the rheumatoid arthritis are prone to developing weak bones or osteoporosis in the long run. This is because they are exposed to prolonged corticosteroid use, possible inactivity and poor diet. However, with improved diet and exercise, this problem can be minimized. Here is a closer look at some of the most important foods that may help reduce the rheumatoid arthritis:

• Omega-3-Complex – Omega-3-Complex is a type of fatty acid that can generally lower the triglyceride (cholesterol) level. It is mostly found in fish and so it is also called Fish Oil. This type fatty acids not only reduce inflammation but it also promote a healthy heart and brain and protects you from developing degenerative diseases. Generally, fish oil can help lower blood pressure, protect you from atherosclerosis and reduce your triglycerides (blood fat levels). Furthermore, it can also help alleviate depression and memory problems. It even helps burn body fat faster thereby giving you a healthy and lean body.

• Calcium – Besides helping to maintain stronger bones, calcium also helps in keeping the weight off, it also helps protect the heart and protects against colon cancer. Women can greatly benefit from intake of calcium by reducing the pains of premenstrual cramps.

• Vitamins – Intake of Vitamin D helps in the faster absorption of calcium, build bone mass and prevent bone loss. Vitamin C helps fight infections and promotes body tissue repair. This vitamin is utilized in the formation of collagen in the cartilage and serves as an antioxidant thereby it is important in preventing inflammation. Vitamin B complex (especially B6 and B12) can help alleviate the stress brought about by the pain, increases grip strength and lessens perception of pain, while Vitamin E is also an important fa-soluble vitamin and has antioxidant properties as well.

If the regular diet at home is deficient with these important vitamins and minerals, it would be best to take in supplementation. Various companies in the market today sell these supplements. It is wise to inquire first with your health care provider or from your nutritionist as to the required dosage per day.