What it is
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affected 18.5 million people worldwide in 2019 and at least 34,000 people in Greece. It is associated with:
- Chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints, and can lead to significant joint damage and disability.
- An increased risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, respiratory problems and infections, as well as a shorter life expectancy.
Causes and risk factors
The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors appear to be involved. The main factors under investigation include:
- Genes and family history
- Increasing age
- Female sex (possibly related to sex hormones)
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Changes in the gut microbiome
- Poor oral hygiene
- Exposure to air pollution and infectious agents
Prevention
Although genes, age and sex cannot be changed, some lifestyle factors can be modified and may help reduce a person’s risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- It is important to stop smoking, if applicable, and maintain a healthy weight, as these appear to be among the most important modifiable risk factors.
- A diet rich in foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, regular physical activity, exposure to clean air, and good oral hygiene may also be beneficial.
Management
For people living with RA, although there is no cure, lifestyle and dietary changes are also recommended, alongside medication prescribed by a doctor. These changes may help manage symptoms and may help prevent or delay flare-ups.
They include:
- Losing weight and/or maintaining a healthy weight
- Stopping smoking.
- Following a high-quality diet.
- Reducing sedentary time and incorporating exercise into daily life (always with a doctor’s approval).
- The doctor and exercise professional can advise the person on which types of exercise are suitable, depending on whether the disease is flaring or in remission.
Because RA is associated with inflammation, a person’s diet should aim to support overall health and may help with inflammation.
- The Mediterranean diet (MD) is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some research has found an association between MD and a lower risk of developing RA. It may also help with symptom management after the disease has developed.
- A person’s diet should be:
- Rich in fruit, vegetables, wholegrain products, legumes, seeds and nuts, herbs and spices, fish, lean meat, low-fat dairy products, and healthy fats such as olive oil, as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
- Wth a great variety.
- Limited in salt, red meat, processed meats, sweets, soft drinks, packaged snacks and takeaway food, as these foods may contribute to inflammation.
- This type of diet may support inflammation management and gut microbiome health, which in turn may support overall health.
- Every person is different, and some foods may not be well tolerated and may worsen an individual’s symptoms. If a person cannot identify which foods are causing problems, they can seek guidance from a dietitian to identify these foods and the amounts they may be able to tolerate.
Remember that small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your daily life.
For personalised guidance, including specific foods and cooking methods that may help with rheumatoid arthritis, you can book an appointment with a dietitian.