Rheumatoid Arthritis occurs in one of every three citizens of the United States.
Symptoms include aches and irritation in affected joints.
There are a number of different theories about the cause of the condition.
RA is not completely curable and in its advanced stages, Rheumatoid Arthritis can make the joints deformed and completely immobile.
It is a disease that can affect anyone at any time.
Managing the condition is much more obtainable than developing a cure and requires eating a nutritious diet.
Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals are all required to keep the disease under control.
Depending on body requirements, a person's diet should include a combination of every food group in different amounts, followed by regular exercise.
A typical diet contains vegetables and fruits, cereal, grains, bread, beans and legumes, skim milk and oils low in saturated fat.
A diet rich in fish oil and vegetarian diets are great alternatives to help manage the condition.
Small amounts of sugar and red meat can be included.
However in some patients, consuming large amounts of red meat can aggravate joint inflammation, although small quantities are generally found to be harmless.
A good Rheumatoid Arthritis diet needs to contain the minerals calcium and iron as well as vitamins B and C.
Body weight also needs to always be under control because Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers can become anemic, lose bone density, develop fevers and develop other symptoms.
Weight gain will only increase the inflammation and pain.
Dietary supplements like calcium and folic acid are also recommended when taking certain medication.
Rheumatoid Arthritis drugs can cause side effects and can change the state of vitamins in the body.
For example, folic acid is often given with methotrexate to help deal with the disease.
Alcohol and caffeinated beverages should also be avoided when taking medication for Arthritis.