Contrary to popular opinion, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is not thought by doctors to be hereditary. Many people who develop RA have no family history of it at all. Instead, researchers believe that certain genes can make people more susceptible to the triggers that cause RA and there is new evidence that the foods you eat can protect you from developing the condition as well as alleviate you symptoms if you already have it.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an inflammatory disease where the body’s immune system begins to attack the joints and surrounding tissue believing them to be foreign threats. The condition is marked by pain, swelling, and damage to the joints. It is essentially an autoimmune response by the body, much like what would take place if you contracted the flu or some other virus. Because of that, the pain and swelling of RA can be accompanied by the fatigue, weakness, and general aches that one would experience when sick with influenza.
While RA can afflict anyone at any age, women are 3 times more likely to develop the condition, and it presents most commonly between the ages of 25-50. RA differs from the most common form of arthritis which is osteoarthritis (caused by the wear and tear of cartilage in joints). While the exact triggers of RA are still unknown, evidence is pointing to smoking, periodontal disease, as well as viral and bacterial infections.
Some foods have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. These would include those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and the antioxidant beta-cryptoxanthin. Refined sugar on the other hand has been found to raise the risk of RA. One study of 180,000 women showed that those who consumed 2 sugar sweetened beverages per day were 63% more likely to develop RA.
Foods to Eat
Oily Fish
It seems that the optimum intake of omega-3 to avoid RA in in the range 2100 milligrams per day. Deep water fish such as herring and anchovies are a good choice due to their low mercury content. Salmon, mackerel, trout are other possible candidates. If you dislike eating fish, consider taking fish oil capsules. Krill oil capsules are also available for those who dislike the fishy after-taste that can sometimes be produced by regular fish capsules.
Mediterranean Diet
Here you’re aiming to Consume foods high in monounsaturated fats like legumes, olive oil, and fruits & vegetables. Red meat is eaten only occasionally.
Vitamin C
While some fruits can provide you with 100% of your daily recommenced intake, like one glass of cranberry juice, aim to consume at least two different fruits of vegetables per day that are high in vitamin C.
Beta-cryptoxanthin
This is an antioxidant typically found in orange and red colored fruits and vegetables. Examples include oranges, red peppers, pumpkin, carrots, watermelon, and papaya.
Flavonoids
These have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Sources include kale, broccoli, berries, red grapes, onions, dark chocolate and soybeans.