Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common inflammatory arthritis in the general population. Women are more than twice as likely to develop the disorder as men, and it can affect anyone from childhood to adulthood. Severe deformity of the joints can occur if left untreated, making it difficult to perform even basic daily activities. While any organ can be affected, hallmark symptoms include swelling, tender joints, and fatigue.Also read – 5 Reasons Why Your Child Should Be Vaccinated Against Covid-19
Medications remain the mainstay of treatment, but many lifestyle changes have been shown to improve quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Like many other chronic diseases, arthritis can be exacerbated by poor lifestyle choices. Recent studies have highlighted the role of nutrition and physical activity in this disease. Also read – Prolonged sitting in AC can harm your health: 5 side effects of air conditioner
Dr. Yatish G.C.Discuss with Consultant – Rheumatology, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore India.com Lifestyle changes that help arthritis patients live better lives. Also read – Weight Loss Guide: Good Fat Peanut Butter Helps to Lose Weight, Consume It This Time | Watch the video
- Diet – ‘You are what you eat !!
We have a lot of misconceptions about diet in arthritis patients. Patients often seek advice from many well-wishers who will confuse rather than solve. Life becomes easier if we follow a balanced diet that applies to most chronic diseases and helps to better treat arthritis.
With the basic formula to increase the intake to avoid taking supplements
- Low fat, low sodium Mediterranean diet Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, sugar-salty drinks, red and processed meats, trans fat omega-3 fatty acids.
- Non-essential amino acids
- Probiotics
- Exercise and Mind Training – “Your Body Can Do It, It’s Time to Convince Your Mind”
- Appropriate physical activity program based on active daily lifestyle, aerobic exercise and resistance training.
- Sleep hygiene measures and stress management.
- Quit tobacco: Yes it is true, smoking also damages the joints !!
It has been proven beyond doubt that smoking plays a major role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Cigarette smoking is the strongest evidence as a modifiable lifestyle behavior that increases the risk of seropositive RA. Prolonged smoking cessation can reduce the risk of seropositive RA and also help to better manage the disease.
- Weight management: Evidence suggests that being overweight may increase the risk of RA.
Obesity is considered an inflammatory condition with increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines secreted by adipocytes, which are involved in RA pathogenesis and are current therapeutic targets. Obesity is also associated with a relative increase in estrogen levels, which probably plays a major role in RA pathogenesis. Weight loss will be followed by fatigue and constant tiredness.
In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis can be a difficult disease with many complex manifestations. With a better understanding of the disease, following your doctor’s instructions, building a strong support network and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help ease the arduous journey through arthritis.
