Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect anyone at any age. RA is different from osteoarthritis, which is the natural wearing down of joints over time. RA occurs when your own immune system attacks your joints. The underlying cause is unknown. But the result is painful swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. A change in diet is one-way people with RA can support their health. Eating certain foods may help you manage your RA symptoms along with medical treatments.

Antioxidants - Antioxidants may improve RA disease activity. These are compounds that can destroy damaging elements like the over-production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in your body. They can also reduce inflammation. You can get more by looking for foods with vitamins A, C, or E, or selenium. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts, or drink green tea.

Fiber - Fiber can aid in weight loss and may help with gut bacteria that reduce inflammation. Some good sources of fiber include:

Flavonoids - Flavonoids are compounds made by plants. They make their way into our diets when we eat fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids can reduce inflammation in your body and help reduce your RA pain and swelling. Foods that are high in flavonoids include:

Spices - Spices can reduce inflammation in your body. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s related to ginger, which may have a similar effect. But curcumin doesn’t work as well without adding piperine, which is a substance found in black pepper. Add a pinch of black pepper when adding turmeric to reduce inflammation. Capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, also helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Food to avoid in RA

Here are some examples of foods that might trigger an inflammatory response:

If you can’t avoid these foods completely, try eating less of them. Even a small change may help improve your RA symptoms.