Foods to include in a diet for psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis can affect different parts of the body, and it is essentially a long-term inflammatory condition. This chronic disease is usually caused when the immune system experiences a setback. Individuals diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis will typically experience symptoms like a lot of pain, swelling, tiredness, and joint stiffness. Those suffering from psoriatic arthritis can also get metabolic diseases like diabetes, heart problems, and high-fat levels in their blood.
Knowing about the most beneficial natural foods to include in a diet for an individual with psoriatic arthritis can help manage the condition better, even if it cannot be completely treated. These are some of the foods that should ideally be a part of the diet for an individual diagnosed with this condition:
- Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids are excellent as they can prevent flare-ups. These poly-unsaturated fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that make them one of the best natural foods to be included in the daily diet for a person with psoriatic arthritis. The best way to get the daily dose of omega-3 fats is to include flaxseed oil, fatty fish, olive oil, avocados and nuts, and chia seeds in the diet.
Healthy fats are among the top natural foods to be included in a diet suitable for psoriatic arthritis. These include avocado oil, extra-virgin olive oil, and different vegetable oils. Besides, cold-water fish like salmon, trout, and herring are heart-healthy foods and contain omega-3 fatty acids, making them beneficial for people with psoriatic arthritis. - Individuals diagnosed with this condition can be prone to vitamin D deficiency, which is required for skin health. The best sources of this vitamin are fortified dairy foods, cereals, egg yolk, orange juice, and oily fish.
- Ginger is a helpful spice as it has anti-inflammatory properties and is also rich in antioxidants.
- Turmeric contains curcumin, which is listed as one of the most helpful natural remedies for psoriatic arthritis.
- Foods rich in antioxidants and fiber include whole grains, fresh veggies and fruits, low-fat proteins, seeds, nuts, and oily fish, and these are beneficial for people with psoriatic arthritis. Some whole grains that should be consumed are oats, quinoa, corn, wild rice, and brown rice.
Dietary changes that can help
- A gluten-free diet is often recommended for patients of psoriatic arthritis. For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it can reduce the intensity of flare-ups.
- A Paleo diet focuses on food that was preferred by our forefathers and has several benefits for people with blood pressure, BMI, and blood lipid issues. It also helps manage psoriatic arthritis as it keeps metabolic markers healthy so that inflammation is reduced and the severity of the condition is controlled.
- A Mediterranean diet is believed to be a healthy option for people with psoriatic arthritis as it is rich in fruits and veggies, whole grains and nuts, and oils. Besides helping in weight loss, this diet helps alleviate arthritic pain.