Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition autoimmune disease which means rheumatoid arthritis is for life. As with any autoimmune disease, it attacks healthy joints. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in that joints affected. Rheumatoid arthritis may result from a combination of genetics, environmental influences and your own immune system however the exact cause of what triggers rheumatoid arthritis is unknown.

Since RA is a disease for life, it is important to change your lifestyle and diet. Something as simple as a diet change and/or supplements can ease symptoms and improve the overall joint function over the course of your lifetime. It is to your advantage to include the following anti-inflammatory foods in your rheumatoid arthritis diet:

1. Fresh produce
Fruits and vegetables are full of anti-inflammatory compounds. If you lean towards a plant-based diet, you will have lower inflammation markers and therefore the symptoms of RA will not be so prevalent. Start with berries, citrus fruits like oranges, celery sticks, broccoli, and cauliflower. Make your snacks apples, grapes, peaches and pears as their edible peels provide rich nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds. Fresh produce is easy to prepare as simple snacks. Chunks of pre-cut watermelon, pineapple or cantaloupe can be easy to grab and help your RA. Veggies in snack-sizes, like cherry tomatoes, baby carrots and mini squash. If you are in a jam, frozen fruits or fruit canned in water is another option.

2. Low-fat diary
Low-fat string cheese and low-fat yogurt are two snacks that not only take the edge off your hunger but help with the symptoms of RA. They contain calcium and enriched with Vitamin D both which also help your bones.

3. Nuts
A serving of nuts makes for a filling and healthy snack. Being rich in fiber, healthy fats and nutrients like magnesium, nuts are a smart addition to an RA diet. Nuts are easy to pack for on the go snacks so keeping to your healthy diet is easier.

4. Fish oils
Fish oil contains omega-3s. Fish oil works against arthritis with its anti-inflammatory properties. The fish oil is thought to increase the fluids in the capsule of the joints infected making movement more fluid and less painful.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease since it is a lifetime commitment to keep the pain at bay. Make sure you talk to your doctor about thoughts on a diet change or supplements. The best approach to food for people with RA is a well-balanced diet.