Effect of diet on the advancement of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), formerly known as "progressive gout," is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by inflammation. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body's own cells and tissues. The most distinctive symptoms of RA include symmetrical synovial inflammation, extra-articular manifestations, and other organ complications. The initial signs of the disease are inflammatory processes in the synovial membrane of the joints. Progressive inflammation then affects the entire joint and surrounding tissues. RA is increasingly affecting a larger population worldwide, with over 1% of people now living with the condition. In Poland, the prevalence has reached 2% of the population. Contrary to common belief, RA is not solely an age-related condition; the first joint pains indicating the onset of the disease can occur even in individuals as young as 25. At this age, symptoms are often dismissed, as young people do not anticipate developing RA. However, the peak incidence occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, with women being four times more likely to be affected than men. RA progressively impairs physical function and often leads to disability. Untreated or neglected RA is a leading cause of premature death, shortening the lifespan of affected individuals by approximately 7 years on average. The exact causes of RA remain unclear, but both genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute significantly, including lifestyle, chronic stress, exposure to infections, allergies, food intolerances, and poor dietary habits.

RZS, as previously discussed, is a systemic condition, indicating that symptoms extend beyond joint inflammation alone. A variety of manifestations affect other bodily systems. Those with RZS frequently endure profuse sweating and emotional distress, which intensifies with disease progression—often culminating in depression. Patients grapple with accepting the rapid decline in physical capability. Due to systemic inflammation, body temperature often rises (referred to as rheumatic fever). Beyond joint-related symptoms, additional physical indicators include dermatological changes—hyperpigmentation, localized muscle atrophy, and lymphadenopathy. Individuals with RZS commonly develop multiple cardiovascular complications, such as myocarditis, coronary artery disease, and atherosclerosis. Prominent edema frequently occurs near the wrists, ankles, and knees.

Effective management of rheumatoid arthritis requires a precise approach and care by qualified specialists. It typically involves the administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics. There are also several medications aimed at alleviating the symptoms of the disease, including methotrexate and gold salts. Non-pharmacological treatments, primarily consisting of rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications, and a proper diet designed to prevent inflammatory conditions, also play a crucial role in therapy. Recently, there has been increasing discussion about infrared lamps, which may reduce pain and enhance the mobility of affected joints.

The interaction between medications and specific nutrients is frequently emphasized. This is also confirmed in individuals undergoing treatment for RZS. Medications prescribed for this condition, including methotrexate, corticosteroids, and sulfonamides, impair the absorption of numerous nutrients from the digestive tract. This is particularly relevant for folic acid and vitamin B6. Medications from the glucocorticoid group reduce calcium absorption from the intestines. This issue was addressed in one of my recent articles. The use of medications leads to multiple nutrient deficiencies in the body. Therefore, it is recommended to supplement the diet of RZS patients with vitamins and minerals. Research indicates that symptoms worsen after consuming certain foods. This trend has been observed in over 1/3 of RZS patients. An inappropriate diet can exacerbate inflammatory symptoms by increasing levels of pro-inflammatory amino acids in the blood. Consequently, consumption of high-histamine foods such as raw and ripening meats, chocolate, moldy and aged cheeses, legumes, tomatoes, citrus fruits, strong tea, and alcohol should be limited. An appropriately selected diet significantly alleviates RZS-related pain. A diet plan designed by a nutritionist may lead to reduced medication dosages. It is often stated that a vegetarian diet is optimal for RZS patients – however, it should be supplemented with fatty sea fish. Fish provides high-quality protein, calcium, and iodine.