Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a degenerative autoimmune disease in which the joints are attacked by an abnormal immune response and slowly destroyed. The joint-related symptoms of RA are different from those of Osteo Arthritis (OA) in that they are generally symmetrical. Specific symptoms (pain, swelling, redness, warmth) may begin to appear in joints of the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. These symptoms include pain that is aggravated by movement. Stiffness is also common, with morning stiffness that lasts longer than one hour occurring frequently. Infrequently, the joints may also be warm to the touch. Motion may be limited by inflammation of the joints.

A definitive diagnosis of RA is usually made by identifying the characteristic symptoms of the disease. The disease is usually obvious within one to two years of its onset. To diagnose the disease, four of the following seven criteria are required:

  • Morning stiffness lasting one hour before improvement
  • Swelling and joint effusion in at least three different joints out of 14 specifically identified joints
  • Swelling of wrist or finger joints specifically
  • Symmetric swelling involving the same joint on both sides of the body
  • Rheumatoid nodules
  • Rheumatoid factors in the blood
  • Typical changes seen in x-rays, including erosions or decalcification in involved joints.
Nutrition
People with arthritis need to consume a diet rich in natural anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and joint-supporting nutrients while avoiding pro-inflammatory foods that are high in sugar and saturated and trans-fatty acids. Some people also find relief by avoiding foods that contain gluten, such as wheat, rye, oats, and barley. Antigluten antibodies have been found in many people with RA.

Increase water and keep hydrated. Organic fruits and vegetables have more flavor,
higher nutritional content and less toxins for the liver to breakdown and eliminate
Healthy oils-most nutritious oil in a cold state is Extra Virgin Olive Oil and recommended safest for cooking is Coconut Oil which does not change to a killer fat during the heating process. Flax Oil is good for salads                                 

 
Reduced amounts of beef, pork and chicken, adding fish, eggs, beans, quinoa and tofu as other protein sources is recommended.  

Foods to avoid are:
-Reduce saturated fat from animals in your diet and avoid fried foods.  
-Avoid all milk and other dairy produce.  You may be alright with goats or sheeps yoghurt. 
-Avoid red meat.
-Avoid the nightshade family of vegetables (peppers, aubergine or eggplant, tomatoes and white potatoes – also tobacco).  The solanine found in these foods can cause pain in the muscles to susceptible people.  
-Avoid table salt

Supplements
TrueJoint Support
TrueD
TrueCal


Lifestyle
Exercise is not very effective with RA because of the underlying nature of the disease. Many people with RA find that regular resting periods for their joints helps to relieve symptoms.

Lots of healthy sun exposure = Vitamin D

Rest, and reduce stress

 

Holistic Nutrition Toronto, Nutritionist, Healthy Weightloss, Supplements for energy, Supplements for weightloss