Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA, is a disorder that occurs as a result of symmetrical polyarthritis and chronic inflammation. In Ayurveda language, Rheumatoid Arthritis is called ‘Amavata’. The word ‘Ama’ means the accumulated toxins. If we put down Rheumatoid Arthritis as a whole, it is a combination of all the features of Vata Dosha along with the deposition of Ama or toxins in the joints or tissues of the body. The major symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis are pain, swelling, stiffness or tenderness in the tissues.

People who are suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis report of amazing results by adopting the Ayurvedic diet and meditation. The use of herbs and Ayurvedic supplements is extremely beneficial and you will be able to see results soon. You can also book an online consultation with ayurvedic doctors of Nirogam Ayurveda.  Ayurvedic remedies reduce inflammation and flare-ups. So, more doctors are now recommending such solutions to chronic RA disorders.

Foods to eat for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Food for Arthritis is a perfect blend of the three doshas as per Ayurveda - Vata, Kapha, and Pitta. Dosha means an element of primary nature that is already present inside the body. However, along with that, you must know about the right foods to eat. Check out the list of foods below. 

1. Grains

Any kind of grains such as aged rice, long-grain variety of rice, wild rice, red rice and so on are good if you are suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis. Along with that other grains such as millets, especially fox millet and barley helps reduce inflammatory problems. Grains are easy and light on the stomach and digestive system. Otherwise, kernels of barley also lower burning in the joints.

2. Pulses and legumes

In this regard, horse gram and chickpeas get the special and most important mention of all. Horse gram is easily available in any market and you can replace any other snack with a bowl of soaked horse gram. Also, hummus is a great idea to have chickpeas in a tasty form. Both of these foods have proteins and also great for the digestive system along with being helpful for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

3. Warm water

Keep drinking lukewarm water throughout the day, but not in excess quantities. It is better if you boil water with ginger and then drink it. It is an Ayurvedic remedy that removes toxins from the body and also improves the digestive system. If you are suffering from the chronic pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis, this remedy will make you more flexible. Also, you will experience less burning and heaviness in the joints.

4. Leafy green vegetables and fruits

There are several essential elements present in seasonal fruits and leafy green vegetables. For example, you will get polyphenols, Vitamin E, bioflavonoids, riboflavin, catechins, vitamin C, carotenoids and other low weight molecular elements. These elements also contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory features, and other fibrinolytic substances. 

Bitter vegetables such as neem, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, brinjal, pointed gourd, goosefoot, drumsticks, and other similar vegetables. Arugula, kale, greens from dandelions and radicchio are some herbs that help reduce inflammatory symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

5. Spices

The most essential spices that restrict arthritic alterations in bone health are ginger, garlic, and turmeric. The best part is that incorporating spices in your daily diet is not at all difficult because they are the main flavouring elements of our food. Also, the spices contain all kinds of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and other analgesic properties. Besides, spices and herbs improve digestion.

6. Buttermilk

A great home remedy for Rheumatoid Arthritis is buttermilk. The best way to consume buttermilk is by adding 2-3 garlic cloves in it. If you have a problem consuming whole cloves of garlic, you can also make a paste of those and add to your drink. However, the second option may have a stronger smell.

7. Animal Meat

The meat of some wild animals such as quails is significantly helpful if you are suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis. The bush and jungle quails are the best variants. Meats are good sources of vitamin A as well as Iron.

8. Wine

Consuming old wine is a good way to deal with Rheumatoid Arthritis. However, consuming old wine does not mean excessive drinking. Drink it in a moderate and measured amount.

9. Castor oil

First of all, milk is a good source of protein and Vitamin D. On the other hand, castor oil is a good purgative. Pour a few drops of castor oil in a glass full of milk. Stir it well and gulp down before going to bed. However, the side-effect of this remedy is that you may have a problem of loose bowel movement the very next day.

Generally speaking, vegetables or fruits should be cooked or stewed well, before you can eat them. The best idea is to go for sweeter vegetables and fruits such as squash, cooked apples, raisins, and potatoes. Also, stay away from food items that take time to digest such as raw apples, Brussel sprouts, and broccoli.

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Also read

1. Management of Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis) with diet and Virechanakarma