Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause damage to multiple portions of the body, including your joints, blood vessels, and skin. Though there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, you can manage the disease by making certain lifestyle changes and taking prescription medication that is designed to alleviate the symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease. Check out a few dietary changes that you can make to improve the symptoms of your rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Eat More Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation in and around the joints that can damage your muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons. One way to combat the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis is to consume foods that fight inflammation.

Fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids are one type of food that acts as an anti-inflammatory. Some fish that you should consider adding to your diet include salmon, trout, and tuna. If you do not like fish, you can ask your doctor if adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine is advisable. Make sure to discuss any supplements with your doctor first, as some can interact with prescription medications.

Extra-virgin olive oil is another food that combats inflammation. You can try using it in place of butter and other oils to prepare your meats and vegetables.

Foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, also reduce inflammation. Researchers believe the fiber in these foods alleviates inflammation throughout the body.

2. Incorporate More Selenium into Your Diet

Selenium is a mineral that contains antioxidants; antioxidants are substances that reduce inflammation. Foods that you can add to your diet to increase your selenium intake include whole-grain bread products and shellfish.

3. Add Foods Rich in Vitamin D to Your Diet

Vitamin D can help the body regulate its immune system. When you have rheumatoid arthritis, your body's immune system attacks the membranes around the joints. This causes the inflammation and resulting symptoms typically associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

You can get vitamin D from eggs, milk, and fortified whole grains.

4. Avoid Foods That May Contribute to Inflammation

There are some foods that are believed to increase inflammation in the body. Meats that have been prepared at an extremely high temperature (via grilling or frying) increase a substance in the blood that is associated with high levels of inflammation. 

Omega-6 fatty acids are another inflammation-causing substance, especially when consumed in levels that exceed your consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. Stay away from corn, soy, and sunflower oils. You should also foods that contain these oils or are fried in these oils.

For more information, contact a center such as Sarasota Arthritis Center.