Nutrition and diet for rheumatoid arthritis: permitted and prohibited foods. Effective nutrition and diet for rheumatoid arthritis: table, sample menu Nutrition for exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis

Scientific editor: Strokina O.A., therapist, functional diagnostics doctor.
November, 2019

When one or more joints become inflamed and swollen, and movement in them becomes painful or impossible, we speak of a disease such as arthritis.

The causes of arthritis are varied; depending on the etiological factor, various forms of arthritis are distinguished:

gouty;
reactive or inflammatory;
psoriatic.

Proper nutrition plays a major role in the treatment of joint inflammation and helps alleviate the course of the disease.

Basic rules of diet for arthritis

The goal of therapeutic nutrition for arthritis is to normalize the immune response, reduce inflammatory reactions and restore full range of motion of the affected joint.

Nutrition for arthritis is selected by your doctor and depends on:

forms of the disease;
degree of joint damage;
concomitant diseases;
severity of clinical manifestations.

Therefore, there is no single diet for arthritis, but it is possible to determine general principles diet planning, as well as recommended and prohibited foods.

In general, nutrition for arthritis corresponds to the standard diet (general version) or treatment tables according to Pevzner No. 15, 10, 6, which are prescribed for different types of arthritis. The energy value of the diet is 2170-2400 kilocalories per day, and the nutrient content corresponds to the following scheme:

proteins - 85-90g, of which 45-50g are animal proteins;
fats – 70-80g, of which 25-30g are vegetable fats;
carbohydrates - 300-330g, of which no more than 30-40g complex sugars.

If you are overweight, a hypocaloric diet is indicated, the energy value of which is 1340-1550 kilocalories per day.

Nutrition principles:

diet;
Meals should be frequent and small, up to 4-6 times a day, the last meal no later than 2 hours before bedtime. Fractional meals represents meals in small quantities and saturation in small volumes, which does not overload the gastrointestinal tract, prevents overeating and excessive weight gain.
culinary processing;
Food should be boiled, baked, steamed or stewed. Dishes prepared using these methods retain their nutritional value and vitamins in larger quantities, while during the frying process carcinogens and other toxins are formed, which increase inflammation processes, and therefore pain, and also impede the functioning of the liver, whose function is to inactivate harmful substances, formed during inflammation of the joints.
food temperature;
The optimal temperature of prepared food should be between 15-60 degrees Celsius. Warm food is better digested, does not irritate the stomach lining and does not burden the liver.
salt and liquid;
Table salt is limited to 6-10g, especially for gouty arthritis. This is due to the fact that, firstly, excess salt causes blood thickening, impairs microcirculation in the joints and provokes the deposition of salt deposits on the articular surfaces. And, secondly, when you are addicted to salt, the functioning of the urinary system deteriorates, which makes it difficult to remove inflammatory mediators, toxins and other harmful substances from the body. It is necessary to consume 2-2.5 liters of free fluid per day, it increases the volume of circulating blood, reduces the concentration of inflammatory and harmful substances, prevents the deposition of salts on the articular surfaces and improves the composition of the intra-articular fluid.
weight;
The diet for arthritis is also aimed at combating excess weight, so the content of complex sugars and easily digestible carbohydrates in food is significantly reduced. The consumption of animal protein is also limited due to its high content of purines (especially with gouty arthritis) and fats. The diet should include foods containing substances that dissolve lipids. Excess weight increases the load on the musculoskeletal system, in particular on sore joints, which aggravates the course of arthritis.
alcohol;
Alcohol slows down the regeneration processes in the affected joint and increases inflammation, and also destroys vitamins and minerals, impairs microcirculation in tissues.
vitamins;
The food of patients with arthritis should be rich in vitamins, especially A, E, C, D and group B, which have a beneficial effect on the condition of the joints and normalize metabolism.
caution in choosing products.
In the mechanism of joint inflammation, the allergic component is of no small importance, so you should be careful when taking foods with high allergenic activity.

Prohibited Products

The list of prohibited foods includes foods rich in purines and nitrogenous substances, which contribute to the deposition of salts on the surface of the joint. Basically, it is protein of animal origin.

Spicy and hot dishes are also excluded, since such food increases the permeability of the vascular wall, which leads to increased absorption of harmful substances. In addition, spicy, salty foods and essential oils irritate the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, disrupt the absorption of nutrients and microelements.

You should avoid or limit your consumption of highly allergenic foods, as they activate inflammatory mediators and aggravate the course of arthritis. It is necessary to reduce the amount of fat in the diet, especially of animal origin (refractory): they contribute to weight gain, disrupt the processes of digestion and the removal of uric acid salts from the body.

In order to reduce body weight, easily digestible carbohydrates and foods containing yeast are excluded or limited.

The list of prohibited products includes:

fresh wheat bread, rich pastries, cakes and pastries, pancakes, pancakes, pies;
meat and poultry, especially fatty varieties;
canned meat and fish (preservatives, flavor enhancers and other harmful and allergenic substances);
pickles, smoked meats, marinades;
seasonings (hot and allspice, horseradish, coriander);
sauces based on meat and fish broth, mayonnaise, broths made from meat, fish, poultry and mushrooms (due to the high content of extractives and purines);
black coffee, tea (due to the stimulating effect, vasospasm, deterioration of microcirculation);
sausages, fast food;
offal (source of hidden fats, purines);
sour vegetables and some fruits and plants (spinach, sorrel, celery), which increase the acidity of urine, contribute to an increase in the level of uric acid in the body;
vegetables of the nightshade family (tomatoes, eggplants, bell peppers, potatoes);
chocolate, jam, honey, butter creams, ice cream (easily digestible carbohydrates);
lard, margarine, beef and lamb fats;
high fat milk and fatty dairy products;
eggs (source of cholesterol, allergen, animal fats).

Authorized Products

First of all, the diet for arthritis should be rich in fresh vegetables and fruits. They alkalize urine, contain large quantities of vitamins, improve the excretion of feces and, along with them, toxins, prevent constipation and normalize weight.

It is also necessary to consume foods that are rich in polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil). They reduce the content of prostaglandins, which are produced during inflammation, reduce platelet aggregation, as a result of which blood microcirculation improves and cholesterol levels are normalized.

Vitamin D prevents degenerative changes in joints, takes part in calcium-phosphorus metabolism, prevents the development of osteoporosis, and suppresses inflammation.

Calcium stimulates the growth of cartilage tissue.

Vitamin A has antioxidant properties, increasing the effectiveness of resisting prostaglandins, stimulating the growth of cartilage, and increasing the body's defenses.

Ascorbic acid is necessary for the production of collagen - a protein of connective tissue (cartilage), in addition, it has an anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effect.

Vitamins B1, B5, B6 enhance the regeneration of damaged articular surfaces.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant; it inactivates lipid peroxidation products and reduces inflammation.

The list of permitted products includes:

bran bread, rye or dried, crackers, biscuits;
vegetarian soups or soups with cereals and pasta;
buckwheat, oats, rice, lentils, beans, millet, corn and pearl barley- fiber, vegetable protein, B vitamins;
greens (parsley, lettuce, dill) – sources of vitamin C, folic acid, iron, calcium;
carrots and beets (with caution), pumpkin, zucchini, white cabbage, cucumbers;
meat low-fat varieties and poultry without skin (1-3 times a week);
sea fish(tuna, trout, cod, mackerel) – polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid, phosphorus, vitamin D;
fermented milk products with reduced fat content and live biocultures - vitamin D, protein;
bananas, peaches, kiwi, apricots, citrus fruits (with caution), apples, preferably red ones;
raspberries, lingonberries, cranberries, strawberries (with caution), black currants, sea buckthorn - vitamins E and C;
sunflower and pumpkin seeds, nuts (with caution);
vegetable oil, preferably flaxseed (it is better absorbed and contains omega-3 fatty acids);
green tea, freshly squeezed juices from vegetables and fruits;
jelly, jelly, aspic, jellied meat from bones and joints - chondroitin, necessary for cartilage tissue.

The need to follow a diet

The treatment table for arthritis eliminates pain, relieves swelling of the joints, and helps to avoid complications of the disease. In addition, the diet normalizes metabolic processes, reduces weight.

Consequences of not following the diet

Neglect of principles therapeutic nutrition aggravates the severity of the disease, promotes the transition of arthritis to arthrosis, and becomes a prerequisite for the development of osteoporosis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease of connective tissues and is characterized by damage to various, mainly small, joints in the human body. There are many causes of rheumatoid arthritis, and treatment requires A complex approach involving both drug therapy and lifestyle changes in general, which undoubtedly includes the prescription of a specific diet.

The diet for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is aimed at reducing inflammatory lesions and correcting the body's metabolic processes. Prescribing a new diet for the patient does not replace treatment, but is an important addition to the overall treatment regimen, which can significantly facilitate and improve the patient’s life. A diet for rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed for life; its strict adherence significantly improves the quality of treatment, and in many cases allows you to reduce the dosage of medications after the acute stage of the disease has passed.

Reasons for the development of the disease

Rheumatoid arthritis is not a disease that has clearly defined causes. It is classified as a multifactorial disease; it is believed that rheumatoid arthritis occurs under the influence of several causes.

Among the main factors preceding the onset of the disease are:

genetic predisposition;
autoimmune diseases;
bacterial infection;
severe emotional shock, stress;
endocrine diseases.

This disease is characterized by damage to both large and small joints. Distinctive features include the principle of damage; the disease affects symmetrically located joints.

Most patients note the onset of the disease with inflammation in the knee or elbow joint, but gradually the disease spreads to the smaller joints of the hands, eventually leading to irreversible deformation of the affected areas. In rare cases, in addition to joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue damage to other systems and organs occurs.

Nutrition Basics

Properly organized nutrition is a necessary condition for therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. As a basis for organizing the diet, as a rule, preference is given to dietary table No. 10 according to Pevzner. To follow this diet, the patient is asked to give up a number of foods, replacing them with approved ones.

When following a diet, a patient with normal body weight is recommended to consume 2400 kcal per day, which includes:

250 g carbohydrates.
70 g fat.
Protein in the amount of 100 g per day.

With excess body weight, the calorie content of daily food consumed is reduced by 20–25%. But any diet is formed by the attending physician for each patient individually, taking into account the characteristics of the course of the disease, the composition of drug therapy and auxiliary chronic diseases that the person has, in addition to the presence of rheumatoid arthritis. That is why it is necessary to carefully study the recommendations of doctors and organize a diet based on the advice of the treating rheumatologist.

Features of the diet table

In the complex treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to following table No. 10, it is necessary to pay sufficient attention to the balance of food consumed. You need to properly organize your diet and adhere to certain rules in your diet. It is important to provide the required amount of macro and microelements and maintain sufficient daily intake of essential vitamins.

When following a diet, it is important:

Limit your fat intake.
Reduce, or better yet eliminate, the intake of allergenic foods.
Try to avoid eating easily digestible carbohydrates.
Minimize the consumption of table salt, add salt to dishes while eating, and not during cooking.
Distribute meals over 5-6 times a day, eat in small portions.

It is believed that when eating certain allergenic foods, the course of the disease worsens, such foods include primarily:

Milk.
Corn, oatmeal, wheat groats.
Citrus.
Pork.
Eggplant.
Tomatoes.

By eliminating each of the allergen products from the diet one by one, you can identify the product that aggravates the disease and in the future it is necessary to eliminate it from the diet permanently.

Nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis in the acute stage

In the acute phase of the disease, maintaining diet is especially necessary. The diet in the acute stage is aimed at reducing the inflammatory reactions of connective tissues, reducing pain and swelling of the joints, normalizing body weight, and easing the load on the musculoskeletal system.

The calorie content of food in the daily diet must be reduced in the acute phase to 1800 kcal. It is necessary to limit the intake of salt in food as much as possible and reduce water consumption to 1 liter per day to maintain the correct water-salt balance and reduce swelling in injured joints.

Also, while following a diet during an exacerbation, you need to try to reduce the load on the gastrointestinal tract, try to spare the stomach, liver, kidneys, which are already under increasing load at this time. To do this, it is enough to properly heat process the products. Try to forget at least for a while about the possibility of using a frying pan with a large amount of vegetable oil, limit yourself to steaming and baking dishes in the oven.

You should reduce your consumption of meat, especially fatty types, and it is better to focus on vegetarianism with sufficient consumption of vegetables and fruits.

Nutrition at the subacute stage of the disease

With proper adherence to the diet, as well as the entire treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor, the acute stage of rheumatoid arthritis gradually turns into subacute within 2-3 weeks. The subacute stage is characterized by relief of acute symptoms and relief of the patient’s general condition.

At this stage of treatment, in the absence of inflammatory manifestations and auxiliary diseases, the patient can return to following table No. 10. The caloric content of the diet gradually increases, and the consumption of proteins in food increases.

It is important to remember that not everything can be eaten at this stage. For example, a high salt content should not be allowed in rheumatoid arthritis, and at this stage of the disease, salt intake should be limited to 3g per day, and fluid intake should be limited to 1.2 liters per day. It is also important to remember to have adequate intake of vitamins and minerals in your diet.

The following products should be included in the daily menu:

bran;
currant;
fish;
buckwheat grain;
apples;
beans, gooseberries, Bell pepper and other foods rich in vitamins.

Nutrition during remission

If during the period of exacerbation and subacute phase of the disease the diet was strictly limited, many familiar foods were prohibited, then as the condition improves, new products are gradually added to the menu. During the remission stage of rheumatoid arthritis, you still cannot eat a lot of salt, but its daily intake increases to 5g per day. In addition, previously prohibited foods are gradually added to the diet.

The food includes the following products:

Meat products (chicken, turkey, veal).
Dairy products (cheeses, cereals with milk).
Coffee with milk, tea, compotes and fruit drinks.
Rich soups (borscht, cabbage soup, rassolnik).

We should not forget the importance of obtaining required quantity vitamins and minerals, it is especially important for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to increase calcium and potassium levels. All new products are introduced gradually, under the supervision of the attending physician, against the background of the main therapy.

Permitted and prohibited products

Patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis are often interested in the question of what can or is not recommended to eat with rheumatoid arthritis?

A diet for arthritis excludes the consumption of certain foods; to familiarize yourself with the list of permitted and prohibited foods, we recommend that you read the table below.

Products	Allowed	Carefully	Prohibited for use
Bread and flour products	Rye, whole grain, with bran	Puff pastry
Cereals	All types
Vegetables	Everything except those prohibited	Pickles, potatoes	Legumes, spinach
Berries and fruits	All (citrus fruits, cherries, apples, pears, etc.)		Figs, cranberries, raspberries
Meat, poultry, fish	Dietary types	Fatty meats	Canned food
Eggs	Limit to 1 per day
Kefir, cottage cheese, sour cream, yogurt, fermented baked milk
Snacks	Salads, eggplant, squash caviar		Sausages, smoked meats
Beverages	Mineral water, milk, juices, compotes, green tea		Cocoa, strong black tea, strong coffee, alcohol
Dessert			Chocolate, sweets, sugar

After reviewing this table, you can conclude which foods are prohibited for consumption while on a diet, and which are allowed to be consumed in unlimited quantities on the recommendation of a doctor. Thus, to follow a diet in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, numerous fruits and vegetables (carrots, onions, zucchini, all types of citrus fruits, cherries and cherries, pears and apples) can be included in the diet in unlimited quantities; in addition, cereals can be used in the diet without restrictions (rice, buckwheat, millet, oatmeal, whole grain pasta).

But it is worth remembering about the restriction in diet; if you have rheumatoid arthritis, you cannot eat chocolate and you should try to completely exclude the consumption of coffee and black tea from the menu, leaving allowed coffee drinks with milk, and replacing black tea with green or herbal tea.

It is also important to know that drug therapy for rheumatoid arthritis most often involves taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which tend to wash calcium from the body, which leads to the risk of arthrosis.

Therefore, it is important to include in the diet menu a sufficient amount of fermented milk products rich in calcium to prevent the occurrence of arthrosis.

The Dong diet, created by the author in the late 30s of the last century, is extremely popular. The nutritional system he created helped the author get rid of the signs of rheumatoid arthritis and for many years has helped many patients reduce symptoms in the acute phase of the disease.

When following this diet, you must give up a number of foods, including red meats, dairy products, fruits and some types of vegetables (eggplant, tomatoes, peppers). Alcohol, vinegar, hot spices and chocolate products are also completely excluded.

Fasting days

In the complex treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to following a general diet and limiting the consumption of prohibited foods, it is recommended to carry out exercises regularly, namely 1–2 times a week. fasting days. Throughout the day, it is recommended to eat plant foods; vegetables and fruits should not be exposed to heat treatment. Fermented milk products remain in the diet; it is advisable to leave only water from drinks.

Fasting day menu options:

9 potatoes, baked in the oven;
10 green apples;
1l kefir;
buckwheat, 500 g dried fruits.

Meal schedule

When treating rheumatoid arthritis, an integrated approach is important and diet is a necessary component of therapy. The diet should be balanced, but excluding harmful foods that provoke exacerbations of the disease. It is advisable to ensure a sufficient supply of macro and microelements and vitamins necessary for the body, which include calcium and magnesium, vitamin D, C, P, and potassium in the first place. It is recommended to eat food fractionally, dividing meals into 5-6 times a day.

By adhering to all the principles of nutrition, following a diet in combination with a general treatment plan, you can improve the patient’s quality of life, increase the period of remission of the disease and significantly reduce the manifestations of the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis.

Sample menu by day

To facilitate the transition to dietary nutrition, the patient is recommended to draw up a diet menu in advance. After consulting with your doctor, you need to plan a diet for rheumatoid arthritis day by day, drawing up a menu for several days in advance; ideally, the menu is drawn up a week in advance, discussing all the nuances with the doctor. The transition to a new diet should be gradual, under the supervision of a specialist, taking into account the general condition and phase of the disease.

Diet options by day:

Option #1

Breakfast – omelet, tea with honey.
Snack – baked apple.
Lunch – vegetable soup, chicken breast.
Afternoon snack – tea with rosehip.
Dinner – cottage cheese, rice porridge, juice without sugar.

Option No. 2

Breakfast – buckwheat porridge with fruit.
Snack – berries.
Lunch – boiled potatoes, fresh vegetable salad.
Afternoon snack – pear.
Dinner – rice with baked vegetables, tea.
A glass of kefir before bed.

Option #3

Breakfast – Oatmeal with water, green tea.
Snack – a handful of nuts.
Dinner - Chicken soup, compote
Afternoon snack – a glass of yogurt.
Dinner – pilaf with turkey, vegetable salad, glass of juice.

The list of prohibited foods for rheumatoid arthritis is not so long, and the number of permitted products allows you to eat varied and come up with a large number of interesting dishes. By remembering a few foods that are prohibited for consumption, you can organize your diet without much effort and heavy plans.

A properly designed menu will significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and have a beneficial effect on the course of the disease. By adhering to a few nutritional rules, it is possible not only to increase the duration of remission, but also to reduce pain and auxiliary manifestations of the disease during an exacerbation.

The diet for rheumatoid arthritis is designed to reduce the occurrence of exacerbations. Its basic principles are based on reducing caloric intake and salt intake. The menu includes vitamins and mineral-rich foods.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease of autoimmune origin, accompanied by damage musculoskeletal system. Patients are concerned about severe joint pain, stiffness of movement and the appearance of tumors. After the examination, appropriate treatment is prescribed, and a special diet for rheumatoid arthritis is recommended. Eating according to her rules helps relieve pain and reduce the manifestations of the disease.

Diet features

Scientific studies have proven that a diet for rheumatoid arthritis of the joints helps reduce fatigue and symptoms of the disease. With a properly selected diet, swelling of the extremities decreases, morning pain and exacerbations decrease. The main principle of such a diet is the elimination of foods that cause allergies.

The features of the diet include the following principles:

the diet for rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed depending on the existing manifestations of the disease, the exacerbation phase and the degree of joint damage;
when arthritis worsens, the daily dose of carbohydrates is reduced to 300 grams, all sweets, honey and jams are prohibited;
all dishes must be boiled, stewed or baked without vegetable oil;
proteins must be of animal origin; it is not recommended to consume more than 80 grams per day;
fats can be eaten at the rate of 1 gram per 1 kilogram of weight;
Most of the diet should consist of vegetarian dishes, eggs, lactic acid products and boiled meat and fish;
the amount of salt should not exceed 5 grams per day; it is allowed to add salt only to ready-made dishes.

All foods that cause aggravation are excluded from the menu. The bans most often include milk, citrus fruits, cereals, tomatoes and potatoes, and pork. The list is compiled individually for each patient by the attending physician, and can be supplemented with other dishes or drinks. The daily calorie content of food should not exceed 1800 kcal.

Prohibited Products

The diet for rheumatoid arthritis mainly consists of vegetarian dishes and lactic acid drinks. Eating fruits, lean meats and juices is allowed. All fatty, spicy or smoked foods are completely excluded from the diet. Only such nutrition can reduce the likelihood of exacerbation of the disease and help get rid of pain.

The following products are prohibited:

alcoholic drinks, including energy drinks and non-alcoholic beer;
fatty broths;
all smoked meats and sausages;
hot seasonings, spices;
strong tea and coffee;
carbonated drinks;
butter, lard;
semi-finished products;
canned fish, mushrooms, stew;
chocolate, any sweets and jams;
cholesterol-rich foods;
citrus.

Allergy testing is required to avoid certain foods. You can independently analyze your diet and identify those dishes after eating which your condition worsens. Each patient has his own characteristics of the body, so you should not self-medicate. Only a doctor can choose sample menu and prescribe medications to treat arthritis.

Diet for arthritis

Rules therapeutic diet for rheumatoid arthritis, they suggest eating 5-6 meals a day and limiting the amount of liquid you drink to 1 liter per day. The daily menu should consist of dishes rich in vitamins and mineral compounds: calcium, potassium and iron. To provide daily requirement In vitamin C, it is recommended to eat fruits, vegetables, drink juices and a decoction of rose hips.

Here are the basic nutrition rules:

Once a week you need to do a fasting day, eating only apples, salads or cottage cheese with kefir;
the majority of the diet should consist of green vegetables and plant products;
It is necessary to add vegetable or olive oil to dishes;
3-4 times a week you need to eat fish: herring, trout, sturgeon, salmon or anchovies;
every day the menu should include cottage cheese and other lactic acid products;
It is recommended to eat 1 egg or egg yolk every other day;
nuts, seeds, and any soy products are allowed;
Sweets with sugar, white bread and pastries, and sandwiches are prohibited.

The best porridges to cook are buckwheat, millet and oatmeal. Bread can only be eaten black, with the addition of bran or seeds. Fruits and berries should be chosen unsweetened, with the lowest sucrose content. Potato consumption should be limited; other vegetables can be eaten every day.

Traditional methods of treatment

Diet for rheumatoid arthritis brings the best results when combined with folk ways and homemade herbal infusion recipes. Good results are achieved by using ginger, hot pepper, garlic and apple cider vinegar. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis folk remedies and nutrition can reduce swelling and swelling, increase joint mobility.

Here are the most effective folk recipes:

Add 60 grams of chopped ginger root daily to all dishes, mix with porridges and salads. Additionally, apply ginger powder to affected and swollen joints. Rub in with slow movements, making sure to insulate the top.
Cooking ginger tea. Pour 2 glasses of water into 1 spoon of chopped ginger root, cook for 40 minutes after boiling. Add a little honey and drink it an hour after eating.
We eat 2-3 cloves of garlic a day to get rid of tumors.
Add red or black hot pepper to salads. It strengthens the immune system and reduces the appearance of redness.

Compliance with the principles of diet and healthy image life will help reduce the manifestations of the disease, reduce pain. You will have to constantly adhere to the rules of therapeutic nutrition, so it is important to diversify the menu and include in it all the products approved by doctors.

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Rheumatoid arthritis is a fairly serious progressive disease. It is accompanied by unpleasant sensations and stiffness in the joints. Constant weakness and crippled limbs forever change the usual way of life. Periodic exacerbations require complex drug therapy. To achieve effective results, treatment with drugs complements proper diet for rheumatoid arthritis for joints. A balanced diet reduces painful symptoms and prolongs the period of remission.

What is rheumatoid arthritis and how does it manifest?

Rheumatoid arthritis - systemic pathology connective tissue of an erosive-destructive nature with gradual deformation of the joints. Affects mainly the small joints of the hands and fingers. Sometimes the knees and large joints of the hip and ankle joints are affected.

The exact cause of the disease is unknown. It is believed that the leading role is played by an autoimmune disorder in the body, in which antibodies are produced against healthy cells. In other words, the body works towards self-destruction.

An autoimmune disorder in which joints destroy themselves is called rheumatoid arthritis.

Risk factors are:

genetic predisposition to immune disorders;
heavy infectious diseases(measles, mumps, hepatitis, herpes zoster);
unfavorable living conditions (hypothermia, stress).

Arthritis of the rheumatoid type is juvenile in nature. It usually appears in adolescence or young age up to 40 years.

Symptoms increase acutely or gradually, expressed as:

morning fatigue and weakness;
stiffness of movement after prolonged rest;
joint pain of varying intensity when moving;
symmetrical articular damage (polyarthritis) with gradual deformation;
muscle spasms;
cold symptoms (fever, chills, sweating, loss of appetite and weight loss).

The progressive course of the disease often leads to chronic arthrosis, causes complications from the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and often ends in disability. Constant medical monitoring of the condition and compliance with all the rheumatologist’s instructions are required.

Features of the diet for rheumatoid arthritis of the joints

Arthritic disease is almost always accompanied by weakness and asthenic syndrome. In addition, excessive consumption harmful products and the lack of nutrients leads to metabolic disorders, a set of excess weight, destruction of cartilage tissue, brittle bones. Nutrition should be healthy and balanced in order to saturate the body with vitamins and normalize the condition.

Proper nutrition is an integral part of the treatment and prevention of all existing diseases

The goal of the antirheumatic diet is not fasting or severe food restriction. On the contrary, a complete diet with a maximum of useful microelements is welcomed, which:

improves metabolic processes;
activates cellular metabolism in joints;
stimulates the production of building material for bones;
restores mobility;
slows down the deformation of articular joints;
reduces discomfort and pain;
regulates body weight to prevent obesity;
prolongs the period of remission of the disease;
reduces the frequency and severity of exacerbations;
improves well-being, increases activity and performance.

Proper nutrition for rheumatism should become a habit for life. It is useful not only for sore joints, but also for the body as a whole.

Dietary guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis

Changing your daily diet is an important step for people suffering from rheumatic joint pathology. The main task is to replenish nutrients in the body to resist the disease and limit the consumption of foods that provoke exacerbation.

The diet is built taking into account several important rules:

eating is divided into 5-6 times, in small portions;
the main time for eating is in the morning, when energy and strength are practically zero;
dinner occurs no later than 2-3 hours before bedtime;
daily norm calories consumed are determined individually depending on weight;
dishes are steamed, boiled, baked, stewed;
fried, smoked, pickled, canned foods are excluded;

By choosing a suitable diet, you can significantly improve the well-being of a patient with such a serious illness.

preference is given to foods rich in vitamins, protein and calcium;
caffeinated drinks are limited in favor of clean water;
the consumption of table salt is significantly reduced (up to 5-10 g per day);
the diet is selected according to the stage of the disease, in acute periods it is more strict;
To cleanse the body and stimulate metabolism, a fasting day is carried out once a week (with the doctor’s permission).

A balanced diet for arthritis helps the body stop destructive processes in the joint, minimize pathological changes in target organs, and prevent loss of mobility and disability.

Nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis: what you can and cannot eat

The diet for arthritic joints should consist mostly of plant foods. You need to eat up to half a kilogram of vegetables and fruits per day. Don't forget about calcium-containing foods, as some medications remove this element, which is beneficial for bones.

The following have a beneficial effect on well-being:

vegetables and fruits ( cauliflower, zucchini, carrots, broccoli, apples, lemons, currants, bananas);
poultry (chicken, turkey) and rabbit, as well as lean pork, veal, beef (rarely);
fermented milk products (sour cream, kefir, cream, yogurt, bifilife, cottage cheese);
low-fat fish, sometimes you can eat tuna, salmon, and perch as a source of Omega-3 fatty acids;
buckwheat, oatmeal, rice porridge, durum wheat vermicelli, vegetable soups based on them;
chicken and quail eggs(no more than one per day, preferably only protein);
vegetable oil (linseed, olive, sesame);
bread, cookies, biscuits baked yesterday;
green tea, fruit and vegetable juices, fruit drinks, jelly, clean water.

The effectiveness of the diet is due to the fact that a person receives the maximum amount of nutrients that help restore his health.

From the proposed products you can prepare a variety of delicious dishes, giving the body strength in the fight against illness.

It has been scientifically proven that some foods provoke exacerbation of arthritis and complicate symptoms.

Diet or foods that should be excluded from the diet:

citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, grapefruits);
sweets (cakes, ice cream, candies, chocolate), as well as fresh baked goods, jam, honey, sugar;
sausages, smoked meats, homemade and store-bought pickles;
fatty fermented milk products and whole milk;
legumes;
vegetables from the nightshade family, namely eggplants, potatoes (possibly baked occasionally), tomatoes;
salt in large quantities, it is allowed to add a little salt to prepared dishes;
alcoholic, caffeine-containing (coffee, black tea, energy drinks), carbonated drinks;
junk food with trans fats and food additives(fast food, semi-finished products).

When choosing a diet, it is important to take into account the recommendations and listen to the body’s reaction to a particular dish. An individual and careful approach to choosing an antirheumatic diet is the key to joint health and well-being.

Principles of diet in the acute phase

Exacerbation of the pathology is manifested by a strong inflammatory process in the joints. Pain increases with movement, morning stiffness, the affected area swells and causes discomfort. Metabolic processes in the body are disrupted, vascular permeability increases, which leads to fluid and sodium retention. During this period, it is recommended to use a special low-protein diet - table No. 10a for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Including plant foods (vegetables and fruits) in the diet to replenish the lack of vitamins and minerals

The main goal of diet No. 10a is to reduce the consumption of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fluids and salt.

Basic principles include:

the calorie content of food per day is 1700-1900 kcal due to a decrease in the consumption of fast carbohydrates (inflammatory and allergic reactions are stopped);
the daily protein intake is 70 g, 2/3 of which are proteins of animal origin (severe painful symptoms with fever are prevented);
the fat content is 70-80 g, some of which is vegetable (sparing the digestive system);
dishes are prepared without adding table salt, you can add salt to prepared foods (no more than 3-5 g; prevention of sodium retention and salt deposits in joints);
The daily fluid intake is limited to 0.7-1 l (water retention and swelling are prevented).

The emphasis in the diet menu for rheumatoid arthritis is on fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and nicotinic acid.

Nuances of nutrition in the subacute stage

The subacute stage of rheumatoid arthritis occurs approximately 10-14 days after the onset of an exacerbation. This definition also includes a sluggish course of the inflammatory process without severe pain and general malaise.

The basis of nutrition is diet No. 10, which is slightly different from the previous one:

protein consumption increases to 90-100 g per day with the same predominance of animal proteins in an amount of about 60% with 30-40% plant proteins;
carbohydrates are limited to 300 g with the almost complete exclusion of so-called fast carbohydrates (no more than 40 g of sugar);
salt is only possible to add flavor to ready-made dishes at a rate of up to 6 g per person;
the volume of liquid consumed increases slightly to 1-1.2 liters, we are talking mainly about plain water;
beneficial vitamins for joints are replenished with currants, apples, buckwheat, lean meat and fish, sweet peppers, rose hips;
A special place in the diet is occupied by dairy products rich in calcium, with the exception of homemade milk.

Reducing salt intake or switching to a salt-free diet

Thanks to the 10th table, the body’s immune defense is increased, regenerative processes in tissues are activated, metabolism is improved, and painful symptoms are eliminated.

Rheumatoid arthritis: diet during remission

The period of absence of obvious manifestations of the disease, up to the complete lull of symptoms, is remission of arthritis. At this time, you cannot relax and eat everything. Dietary restrictions are still present, but they are not as strict, and the diet is more varied.

The general rules of the diet are based on table No. 10 with some additional accents:

to prevent muscle and joint atrophy, the amount of protein consumed remains at the same level along with a low sugar content in the menu;
in order to avoid relapse and pain, the use of caffeine in any form is minimized, or better yet completely eliminated;
vegetables of the nightshade family are limited in daily nutrition, which, according to scientific observations, most often cause exacerbation;
for the normal functioning of the body, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, which are obtained from seafood, are necessary;
reducing fatty meats containing Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet significantly reduces joint discomfort;
It is periodically recommended to switch to a vegetarian diet based on salads, side dishes, vegetable soups and fresh fruit desserts;
It is important to constantly monitor your weight, excess of which complicates the course of the disease and accelerates the destruction of cartilage tissue.

A detailed menu for a week in a diet for rheumatoid arthritis is compiled taking into account the list of permitted and prohibited foods, as well as individual recommendations of a rheumatologist or nutritionist.

Gentle cooking of food by boiling, baking and steaming ingredients

Fasting days

The most popular diets for this period are:

milk-curd;
apple;
kefir;
salad;
fruity;
from dried fruits.

It is assumed that usual meals are replaced with one (a glass of kefir, a baked apple) or several products (fruit salad with low-fat yogurt) in small quantities.

Thanks to the following measures:

complete cleansing of impurities and toxins occurs;
metabolism is normalized;
the functioning of the digestive tract is stabilized;
the salt and carbohydrate load is removed from the joints;
extra pounds are lost, excess fluid is removed;
the vascular system is toned;
general well-being improves.

The main thing is not to overdo it and not worsen the condition. If the fasting day does not bring relief or there are concomitant diseases, it is better to abandon this stage of the diet. A good alternative for religious people is fasting.

For this disease, nutritionists recommend adhering to a diet corresponding to table No. 10

Rheumatology doctors and nutritionists pay great attention to proper nutrition in the treatment of arthritis. They think proper nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis, it can not only alleviate unpleasant symptoms, but also delay irreversible changes in the joints for a long time and improve the health of the entire body.

Elimination diet

Observations have proven that due to the autoimmune origin of rheumatoid arthritis, its exacerbations are often caused by allergies to certain foods. They need to be completely excluded from the diet experimentally - introduce a “dangerous” product into the menu for 1 day and look at the reaction of the joints. To ensure accurate results, the procedure can be repeated at 3-day intervals.

Lots of vegetables and fruits

They should make up more than half of the meals consumed. A huge amount of useful microelements and vitamins help cope with the disease and prevent severe inflammation. In addition, vegetarians suffering from joint pathologies feel much better than meat eaters.

Sparing the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys

The systemic and chronic course of arthritis involves frequent use of various medications that cause gastritis and load the liver, and with long-term use have a negative effect on the kidneys. It is recommended to cook dishes by steaming. In order not to irritate the gastric mucosa, you should exclude hot and fatty sauces, fried foods, canned food, rich broths, smoked meats, and chocolate from your diet.

A feature of the system is considered to be an optimal balance in the composition of nutrients that meets all the needs of a weak body

Calcium is a building material for bones

Hormonal therapy leads to the leaching of calcium from joints. As a result, osteoporosis develops, bones become brittle, fractures, dislocations, and cracks occur. To prevent such complications, it is important to include low-fat fermented milk products, leafy greens, and soy in the menu.

Eating in a relaxed environment

You should not eat in front of the TV or while running. Thus, nutrients are not absorbed, digestion worsens significantly, and stomach pain occurs. You should eat food slowly, in a calm and quiet environment, chewing thoroughly. This not only promotes good digestion, but also prevents overeating, which means obesity.

Doctors' advice is suitable for both patients with arthritis and healthy people to avoid the development of joint diseases.

Dong Diet

Various dietary programs are used in the treatment of arthritic pathology. The Dong diet is considered the simplest and most effective - a method of nutrition developed in the USA specifically for people with rheumatism. Its main principle is the complete rejection of animal meat. The therapeutic course lasts 10 weeks.

The essence of the method is to exclude from the menu for a specified period of time:

any meat, including lean chicken, turkey and rabbit;
tomatoes, including fresh tomatoes, in salads, sauces, dressings;
all citrus fruits;
chocolate and all kinds of chocolate treats;

Nutrition for arthritis of the fingers, based on the Scandinavian diet, is considered one of the most effective in treating the disease

spices are not only hot, but also aromatic spices;
milk and dishes prepared on its basis;
egg yolk;
vinegar and sour dressings.

Numerous positive reviews indicate that relief occurs already in the first weeks, the active phase of the disease recedes much faster. A long-term and stable remission of rheumatoid arthritis is observed, in which these products can be slowly returned to the diet.

Scandinavian diet

As an alternative, experts suggest trying the Scandinavian option dietary nutrition. This diet is quite complex and strict, but after it there are noticeable improvements - stiffness in movement goes away, the dosage of anti-arthritic drugs is reduced.

Proper nutrition begins according to the Scandinavian method with a 10-day low-calorie diet.

Only allowed:

herbal teas;
vegetable broths;
beet or carrot juice;
boiled potatoes;
garlic;
parsley decoction.

This is followed by 3-4 months of a vegetable diet, in which any vegetables, fruits, berries, as well as rice, nuts, and soy are consumed. It is strictly forbidden to eat:

The list of prohibited items also includes chocolate, alcohol, spicy seasonings, and canned food.

meat;
fish;
cereals;
eggs;
dairy products;
citrus;
hot spices;
sugar;
coffee;
canned food;
alcohol.

Salt is allowed in small quantities. After the allotted period, fermented milk products and cereals are gradually added to the diet. Fasting days are carried out periodically, for example, cherries are good for arthritis and saturate the body with vitamins.

It is best to start the Scandinavian diet in the summer-autumn period, when fresh vegetables and fruits are abundant. Before use, you should consult your doctor about the advisability of such a diet.

Recipes for the diet table

We offer several simple and healthy dishes that can be included in the diet for rheumatoid arthritis of the joints on a daily basis:

Vegetarian noodle soup

Carrot, onion and chop the parsley and boil in water with the addition of vegetable oil. Add finely chopped potatoes to the broth and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add durum wheat noodles and cook until done. When serving, season with dill.

The main rule is not to eat prohibited components.

Vegetable stew with meat

Boil the beef and cut into small pieces. Simmer chopped onions and carrots in a small amount of water for 5-10 minutes. Cut the potatoes into slices, mix with green peas, tomatoes, meat and stewed vegetables. Pour the mixture with water and vegetable oil and simmer, covered, until done.

Perch in sour cream

Wash the sea bass carcass and remove bones. Grease the mold with vegetable oil and place the fillet in it. Pour in sour cream sauce made from 10% sour cream and a pinch of flour. Bake in the oven until golden brown.

Pumpkin porridge

Wash the pumpkin, peel and cut into cubes. Cook until softened in plain water, mash into a paste. Wash the millet well cold water and add to the pumpkin, add milk and sugar. Simmer covered until thickened over low heat. Season the porridge in a plate with a piece of butter.

Rose hip decoction

tablespoon dried fruits Grind rose hips in a coffee grinder. Pour a glass of boiling water and boil for 10 minutes. Leave for 3 hours in a dark and cool place, strain.

Important in cooking taste preferences and the benefits of the products used. And there are a lot of recipe options. The main thing is that the food benefits your joints and has a positive effect on your well-being.

Traditional methods in the fight against rheumatoid arthritis

Folk recipes based on natural ingredients provide an auxiliary function in the treatment of inflamed joints. Home remedies help reduce the severity of symptoms and increase the overall tone of the body.

Here are some simple and effective remedies:

infusion of rose hips and lingonberries, currant leaves - pour 30 g of all ingredients into a liter of boiling water, leave until cool, drink a glass twice a day before meals;
rubbing with chestnut tincture - infuse 50 g of green chestnut skins in 1 liter of vodka for a month, rub into sore joints daily until relief occurs;
potato compress - grate one fresh potato, wrap the pulp in cotton cloth and apply to the affected area, wrap it with film and leave overnight;
egg ointment – beat 1 chicken egg yolk with 1 tsp. turpentine and 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar, lubricate the sore area with massage movements before going to bed;
compress of burdock or cabbage leaves - prick washed green leaves with a fork and grease with a little honey, apply to the joint and wrap it, change 2 times a day.

Traditional methods have proven their effectiveness in practice, but precautions should not be neglected. To avoid an allergic reaction and complications, a preliminary consultation with your doctor is necessary.

Rheumatoid arthritis is less a disease and more a way of life. Correct drug treatment in combination with a special diet, therapeutic exercises and procedures, they can maintain activity and good health for many years. It is only important to identify the pathology in a timely manner and constantly follow all medical recommendations.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an insidious disease that gradually destroys joints. To stop the development of the disease and smooth out exacerbations, you need to adhere to some simple rules in nutrition. Following a diet will allow you to strengthen your joints, avoid their destruction, and also strengthen your immune system.

Rheumatoid arthritis is notorious for relapses. They can be provoked by an incorrect diet, especially when allergenic foods are among the foods consumed. Therefore, when creating a menu for rheumatoid arthritis, you need to beware of the following components:

Foods with a high percentage of fat (fatty meat, milk, sour cream).
Mayonnaise, semi-finished meat products, as well as fast food. These products contain trans fats, which contribute to poor circulation and aggravate the inflammatory process.
Confectionery and chocolate. Industrial sweets contain a significant amount of sugar, which thins bone tissue, promotes weight gain and threatens joint deformation.
Strong tea and coffee, because caffeine leaches calcium from bones, increases their fragility.
Alcohol. Alcoholic drinks lead to swelling, activation of inflammation and provoke a crisis.
Table salt. Excessive amounts of table salt in the diet for rheumatoid arthritis leads to fluid retention in the body, increasing inflammation and pain.

Must-have products

Restore cartilage tissue naturally will help:

Dishes containing gelatin: jellied meat, strong bone broth, lean meat. Natural gelatin promotes the production of collagen, which is so necessary for sore joints.
Food products containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These are fatty sea fish, cod liver, walnuts, unrefined linseed and camelina oils.
Vegetable protein. Useful products for rheumatoid arthritis are legumes, buckwheat. The protein contained in them is a building material for the cartilage tissue of the joint.
Foods containing calcium are low-fat dairy and fermented milk, feta cheese, white cabbage and broccoli. Calcium relieves bones and joints from fragility.
Freshly squeezed juices, compotes, fruit drinks. These drinks saturate the body with vitamins, helping to fight for health.

Top 10 anti-inflammatory foods: papaya, avocado, cranberries, broccoli, red cabbage, blueberries, ginger, walnuts, turmeric, celery.

Fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and nuts will be an excellent addition to your diet. Nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis should be as varied as possible and contain the necessary vitamins, microelements and minerals. It is mandatory to monitor the consumption of vitamins such as: A, group B, C, E, D, as well as selenium, manganese and copper. The optimal amount of these substances guarantees success in the fight against the disease.

Diet during a crisis

During moments of crisis, when the patient is in pain and is forced to take medications, nutrition requires special control.

The diet for exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis should completely exclude salty, fried and fatty foods.

The following foods can be eaten at such a moment: lean veal, chicken, cheeses, rye bread, spoiled milk, oatmeal and buckwheat porridge with flaxseed, mustard or camelina oils, raw and stewed vegetables, fruits, berries. The most useful drinks will be: compotes, juices.

Since during an exacerbation of the disease, movements are limited and the patient leads a sedentary lifestyle, the amount of food should be minimal and low in calories. This way, you will be able to avoid weight gain, which means additional stress on your joints.

Basic principles of diet planning

When thinking about which diet is more effective for rheumatoid arthritis, you should adhere to the following menu design principles:

You should eat small meals, often, following the regime.
Portions should be small. Overeating is unacceptable.
Sufficient average daily water consumption. You must drink at least 2 liters of clean water per day; any drinks and liquids from first courses are not included in this volume.

Dietitian (nutritionist) about diet for rheumatoid arthritis:

Sample menu for every day

An approximate list of foods for rheumatoid arthritis that can be consumed every day will help you create a menu.

Monday

Breakfast. Steamed omelette, fresh vegetables, coffee drink.

Afternoon snack. Baked apples.

Dinner. Fresh vegetable soup, boiled rabbit or chicken meat with buckwheat, compote.

Dinner. Boiled fish, mashed potatoes, stewed zucchini.

Before bedtime. Curdled milk.

Tuesday

Breakfast. Porridge from oatmeal, fermented milk drink, whole grain bread.

Afternoon snack. A handful of almonds.

Dinner. Cabbage soup with lean meat from fresh cabbage, vegetable stew, unsweetened tea with lemon.

Dinner. Boiled white chicken meat with rice, whole grain bread, fruit compote without sugar.

Before bedtime. Fresh apples.

Wednesday

Breakfast. Cottage cheese casserole, unsweetened tea, sandwich with cheese.

Afternoon snack. A handful of soaked prunes.

Dinner. Bean soup, a small piece of boiled lean veal, with rice and fresh cucumber salad, broth.

Dinner. Fish meatballs with baked potatoes and herbs, a glass of cocoa.

Before bedtime. Fermented milk drink.

Thursday

Breakfast. Oatmeal with fruit, herbal decoction.

Afternoon snack. A handful of walnuts.

Dinner. Cabbage soup from sauerkraut, rice, sandwiches with butter and cheese, yogurt.

Dinner. Chicken breast steamed with vegetables, fermented baked milk.

Friday

Breakfast. Cottage cheese casserole, cheese, unsweetened tea.

Afternoon snack. Guest of berries.

Dinner. Borscht with lean meat, oatmeal, vegetable salad with vegetable oil, rosehip decoction.

Dinner. Boiled fish with potatoes, stewed tomatoes and zucchini.

Before bedtime. Kefir.

Saturday

Breakfast. Omelette with herbs, cocoa, sandwich with butter and cheese.

Afternoon snack. A handful of almonds.

Dinner. Soup with vegetables, boiled sea fish with rice, bread, cocoa.

Dinner. Buckwheat, stewed pumpkin, coffee drink.

Before bedtime. Baked apples.

Sunday

Breakfast. Two boiled chicken eggs, cheese, bran bread, unsweetened tea.

Afternoon snack. Cocoa.

Dinner. Cabbage soup with lean meat, meatballs with rice, bread, rose hip decoction.

Dinner. Porridge stewed with pumpkin and cocoa.

Before bedtime. A glass of kefir.

A diet is especially necessary if the hands are affected, because the hands experience significant stress every day.

Therefore, nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis of the fingers should be selected as carefully as possible and be under constant monitoring.

By following basic nutritional rules, you can avoid relapses of the disease and significantly alleviate the patient’s condition.

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