Diet for Relief of Rheumaoid Arthritis

Tea

  Many experts claim that tea should be added to the list of disease fighting fruits and vegetables that humans should consume daily.  Green tea contains a type of polyphenol called epigallocataechin-3 gallate, commonly called EGCG that inhibits the expression of the interieukin-8 gene.  This is a key gene involved in the arthritis-inflammatory response.  Basically, the more green tea that you drink, the better that the results will be due to the ability of EGCG to short circuit the process that leads to the inflammation.  Black tea is made from the same leaves as green tea, though processed differently; it may be equally as effective and beneficial.  In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, tea also possesses; antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-aging properties.

Fish

  The Omega-3 fatty acids that are contained in fish decrease inflammation by significantly reducing one of the most inflammatory immune substances, leukotriene B4.  Research indicates that Omega-3s may block the production of inflammatory substances linked to RA.  Cod-liver-oil has been shown to slow down and even reverse the destruction of joint cartilage.  Omega-3s can be added to the diet by using canola or flaxseed oils in cooking and salad dressings.

Pineapple

  An enzyme in pineapples, called brome lain, can reduce inflammation associated with Rheumatoid arthritis also. 

Soy

  Soy has been shown to reduce both pain and swelling in rats and may one day be used by humans to manage chronic pain, like that of RA.  It has not yet been proven to have the same results on humans; however with the many known health benefits of soy, it is a great addition to any diet.

Vegetables

  A vegetarian diet, modified to include fish, can help reduce inflammation in persons with RA.  Animal sources such as; meat, poultry, dairy, and egg yolks contain arachidonic acid, a fatty acid that is converted to inflammatory prostaglandins leukotrienes.  Broccoli in particular is a fabulous addition to a diet.  Studies show that people who are low in glutathione, contained in broccoli, are more likely to have arthritis than individual with higher levels.