Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic health disorder affecting millions worldwide. However, eating the right foods and avoiding unhealthy practices can greatly improve the quality of life. This article discusses common things individuals with RA should avoid to manage their condition better. This is because individuals with the condition can reduce inflammation, minimize joint pain and stiffness, and maintain overall health and wellness by consciously avoiding specific triggers and eating healthy.

Things to avoid to manage rheumatoid arthritis
Here are seven things to avoid to manage rheumatoid arthritis:

Gluten-containing foods

It is believed that patients with RA who adjust their meal plan to exclude foods containing gluten can find significant relief from their symptoms. Gluten, a protein found in wheat and rye, causes inflammation and has been linked to worsening arthritic pain. Removing these foods from the meal plan can help alleviate some uncomfortable symptoms and offer greater comfort regarding joint movement. You can replace gluten-containing bread, pasta, and snacks with almond flour, quinoa pasta, popcorn, vegetables, and fruits.

High-fat and processed foods
High-fat and processed foods cause inflammation, exacerbating RA symptoms. These foods are also typically high in calories and can lead to excess body fat, which puts extra stress on joints and makes it harder to manage RA. In contrast, a meal plan rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Sedentary lifestyle

A sedentary (barely active) lifestyle can lead to weaker muscles and joints, making it more difficult to manage RA symptoms. Exercise can help improve muscle strength and flexibility, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health. However, note the need to be careful while choosing activities since not all exercises are appropriate for rheumatoid arthritis and might exacerbate symptoms.

Stress

Stress triggers RA flare-ups and can worsen symptoms in people with the condition. Finding ways to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being. Creating a work-life balance that provides adequate rest and self-care is also important. If stress is particularly challenging, seeking support from a mental health professional may be beneficial. Managing stress is an important aspect of managing RA, and finding strategies that work for you is important.

High-salt foods
Eating too much salt can make your body retain extra fluid and water weight, resulting in swollen joints and increasing RA-associated pain and inflammation. Avoiding high-salt foods, such as processed snacks, fast food, and canned foods helps keep your inflammation levels low without sacrificing flavor. To get the most benefit out of reducing salt in your food, try focusing on whole, natural ingredients such as lean proteins, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats instead.
Overworking

Overworking can exacerbate RA symptoms by causing joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue. People with RA should prioritize rest and find a healthy balance between work and relaxation. Regular breaks, using ergonomic tools at work, and engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation may be helpful. Working with an occupational therapist can also help identify ways to adapt work tasks better to suit your needs and manage your RA symptoms.

Ignoring treatment

Ignoring treatments prescribed for RA can lead to more severe symptoms (such as impaired mobility and deformed organs) and long-term damage to the joints and other organs. It’s important to take remedies as prescribed and communicate any concerns or issues to your healthcare provider. If side effects are a concern, they may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatments.

People with RA should also attend regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their condition and adjust their treatment plan. By avoiding these stress-inducing and straining activities, you can improve your overall quality of life and manage RA more effectively.

Top 5 smoothies for joint pain relief

Smoothies are a delicious way to get essential nutrients to help manage joint pain. Here are five smoothie recipes packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients to help relieve joint pain:

Pineapple and turmeric smoothie
Pineapple contains bromelain, which has been shown to reduce inflammation, and turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory. To make this smoothie, blend 1 cup of fresh or frozen pineapple, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1/2 cup of almond milk, and a handful of ice.

Green smoothie
Leafy greens (spinach and kale) are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds; adding other ingredients like ginger and avocado can provide additional benefits. To make a green smoothie, blend 2 cups of spinach or kale, 1/2 avocado, 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1/2 cup of frozen mango, and 1/2 cup of coconut water.

Berry and beet smoothie
Berries are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and beets contain betalains, which can help reduce inflammation. To make this smoothie, blend 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), 1 small cooked beet, 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, and a handful of ice.

Ginger and carrot smoothie
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory, and carrots are high in beta-carotene, which can help reduce inflammation. To make this smoothie, blend 2 cups of chopped carrots, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 1/2 cup of almond milk, and a handful of ice.

Banana and peanut butter smoothie
Bananas are rich in potassium, which can help reduce inflammation, and peanut butter contains healthy fats and protein to help keep you full. To make this smoothie, blend 1 banana, 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, 1/2 cup of almond milk, and a handful of ice.

Incorporating these smoothies into your meal plan can provide a tasty and convenient way to help manage joint pain. Add as little sweetener as possible, as high blood sugar can aggravate RA symptoms. However, speaking with a registered nutritionist is important to ensure that these smoothies fit your nutrition needs and any remedies you may be taking.

6 foods to manage arthritis

A proper food regime can be important in managing arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and providing essential nutrients. Here are six foods that can help manage arthritis:

Fatty fish
Salmon, tuna, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and joint pain.

Berries
Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. They are also low in calories and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal plan.

Leafy greens
Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, are rich in vitamin K, which can help reduce inflammation and improve bone health. They are also high in antioxidants and other essential nutrients.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Adding turmeric to soups, stews, and curries can help reduce inflammation and joint pain.

Ginger
Ginger contains gingerols, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Adding ginger to tea or using it in stir-fries and curries can provide these benefits.

Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds, are high in healthy fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. They are also rich in protein and fiber, promoting overall health.

Incorporating these foods into your meal plan can help manage arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and providing essential nutrients.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis requires you to put some work and effort into managing its painful and uncomfortable symptoms. However, avoiding certain lifestyle habits, consuming anti-inflammatory foods, and incorporating joint pain relief smoothies into your meal plan can help manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Moreover, working with a registered nutritionist is important for developing a personalized plan to manage the condition.