Rheumatic diseases, in particular rheumatoid arthritis, is a problem for most people over 60 years of age. Constant joint pain, unfortunately, can effectively reduce the quality of life of older people. How to prevent and reduce the symptoms of rheumatic diseases?
It has long been known that certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties. Their regular use in the diet of patients with rheumatism will help ease the course of this disease.
Nutrition rules for rheumatism
- You should eat at least 5 times during the day. The use of 5 small meals, rather than 2-3 large meals, significantly speeds up the metabolic rate, and the body is easier to cope with excess calories. This allows you to maintain a normal body weight.
- At least 4 times a week you need to eat fish. Fish is a good source of digestible protein easily and fat, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This is especially important, since these useful fatty acids have a very strong anti-inflammatory effect. Especially useful in this respect are the types of fish: salmon, halibut, mackerel, cod.
- Add olive oil and linseed oil to salads. Fats are necessary for the proper functioning of the body. These oils are a good source of omega-6 and omega-9 fats. In addition, they are rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, F, which have a high antioxidant potential.
- Use of spices. Some spices have anti-inflammatory properties. The mechanism of their action is very similar to acetylsalicylic acid( aspirin), but unlike aspirin, spices are safer for the mucous membrane of the stomach. Examples: ginger, cayenne pepper, turmeric, cayenne pepper, chili, onion and garlic. Jelly for dessert. Gelatin, which is the basis of jelly, affects the production of collagen and helps in the regeneration of affected tissues.
- Fruits and Vegetables. Especially worth paying attention to those that contain vitamin C. This is a very good antioxidant, which reduces inflammation and is involved in the metabolism of collagen and the formation of articular cartilage. However, you should avoid consuming large quantities of pepper, eggplant and some cruciferous vegetables( turnips, cabbage).Vitamin C-rich foods: oranges, apples, gooseberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, lemons, cucumbers, radish, green peas, broccoli.
- Refuse bad habits - alcohol and smoking. Remember that alcohol reduces the ability of the defenses of the body, that is, weakens the immune system. A good solution is one or two glasses of quality red dry wine per week. The red wine contains flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory effect and strengthen immunity. Sample menu for rheumatism
- Breakfast.
Rye bread from whole grains, low-fat chicken breast meat, vegetables( radish, cucumber, red pepper), a little walnuts, green tea. - Second breakfast.
Vegetable salad with linseed oil, bran and a little salmon., Fresh carrot juice. - Lunch.
Brown rice, flavored with curry, vegetable salad with olive oil, boiled beef.
Drink: mineral water. - Snack. Jelly with fresh strawberries or blueberries.
- Dinner.
Cottage cheese with green onions.
Drink: red tea.
Proper nutrition, rational therapeutic diet for rheumatism effectively help to fight this unpleasant disease. Be healthy!
- Breakfast.
Therapeutic diets