- Load up on cold-water fish.
- If you don’t like fish, take fish oil supplements.
- Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
If there’s one thing experts know for sure, it’s that fish is good for the inflammation that coincides with RA, and research supports this belief.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, researchers have found that the oil found in fish can help with both joint pain and morning stiffness. It has even coincided with the ability to reduce medications in some patients.
“Be sure your diet includes such cold-water fish as herring, mackerel, trout, salmon and tuna. Although there may be no magic elixir, the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are the most promising anti-inflammatory in food,” says Ruth Frechman, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, as reported by the Arthritis Foundation.
Experts say that three and a half ounces of fish boast one gram of omega-3 fatty acids. So aim for this amount or more.
In truth, some people just don’t like fish. But it's still possible to reap the benefits found in fish by taking fish oil supplements.
“If you choose to try fish oil supplements, talk to your doctor about a dosage,” reports the Arthritis Foundation. “People with RA can often take a higher level of fish oil than is recommended for the general public, but there can be side effects. Higher doses of fish oil may interact with certain drugs, including those for high blood pressure.”
It’s easy to find fish oil supplements. They’re available at just about any grocery or drug store.
Because RA is a disease of inflammation, it’s important to stick to an anti-inflammatory diet. This means eating anti-inflammatory foods that provide ample amounts of fiber.