Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can be alleviated significantly from a plant-based diet. According to new research in Frontiers in Nutrition journal, the 1% of the population affected with the disease can now get help from diet. The study found research from multiple studies to corroborate their findings.

By looking at how diet impacts the biological response and mechanisms, doctors can find what diet changes impact biological mechanisms and which of those mechanisms are affected by rheumatoid arthritis. They can then link dietary changes with improved symptoms.

The study found that certain changes from plant-based diets can benefit symptoms of the diseases. The first benefit of the diet is reduced inflammation. A 2015 study found that reducing animal products led to reduced inflammation. The C-reactive protein that reacts to inflammation can be reduced in following plant-based diets high in fiber.

Another study examined individuals with rheumatoid arthritis and had them follow a low-fat, vegan diet for four weeks. The result? Reduced joint-swelling, pain, tenderness and stiffness.

We know that gut health is linked to plant-based diets. People suffering from rheumatoid arthritis often have low levels of bacterial diversity, meaning lower gut health. Plant-based foods can help increase bacterial diversity, which would help rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Dr. Hana Kahleova is the co-author of the study. She said of the link between diet and the disease, “A plant based diet comprised of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes may be tremendously helpful for those with rheumatoid arthritis. This study offers hope that with a simple menu change, joint pain, swelling, and other painful symptoms may improve or even disappear.”

Want more about the health benefits of a plant-based diet? Read these articles below:

• Managing Inflammation and Bowel Issues with a Plant-Based Diet
• How a Vegan Diet Can Reduce Arthritic Pain
• How a Plant-Based Diet Manages Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
• An Anti-Inflammatory Diet Check-List That Can Transform Your Life
• Weekly Meal Plan: Anti-Inflammatory Vegan Meals!
• How a Vegan Diet Can Reduce Arthritic Pain

Also, We highly recommend downloading the Food Monster App on iTunes — with over 15,000 delicious recipes it is the largest meatless, vegan, plant-based and allergy-friendly recipe resource to help you get healthy! 

For more Animal, Earth, Life, Vegan Food, Health, and Recipe content published daily, subscribe to the One Green Planet Newsletter!

Lastly, being publicly-funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing you with high quality content. Please consider supporting us by donating!