By: Sherri Isaak, MS,RD,CDE,BC-ADM, Jessica Grzybowski, Dietetic Intern

Nutrition Tips for Arthritis

Although there are several different types of arthritis, the tips below may help to decrease inflammation and help you live an overall healthier lifestyle. 

Examples of Anti-inflammatory Foods (add these foods to a healthy meal pattern)

Chia and flax seed

Fruit: strawberries, blueberries, oranges, cherries, pomegranates

Tomatoes

Nuts: almonds, walnuts and other nuts

Leafy greens: spinach, kale, collards and more

Olive oil

Green tea

Spices: turmeric, ginger, garlic, rosemary, etc.

 

Examples of Inflammatory Foods (choose less of these foods)

Fried foods

Soda and foods high in added sugar

Refined carbs: white bread, white rice, pastries, refined breakfast cereals

Excessive intake omega 6 fatty acids (corn oil, safflower, sunflower oil, soybean oil)

 

References

  1. Gioia C, Lucchino B, Tarsitano MG, Iannuccelli C, Franco MD. Dietary Habits and Nutrition in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Can Diet Influence Disease Development and Clinical Manifestations? Nutrients. 2020;12(5):1456. doi:10.3390/nu12051456
  2. Diamanti AP, Panebianco C, Salerno G, et al. Impact of Mediterranean Diet on Disease Activity and Gut Microbiota Composition of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. Microorganisms. 2020;8(12):1989. doi:10.3390/microorganisms8121989
  3. Basu A, Schell J, Scofield RH. Dietary fruits and arthritis. Food & Function. 2018;9(1):70-77. doi:10.1039/c7fo01435j
  4. Oliviero F, Scanu A, Zamudio-Cuevas Y, Punzi L, Spinella P. Anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenols in arthritis. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 2017;98(5):1653-1659. doi:10.1002/jsfa.8664