Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Vegan diet helps rheumatoid arthritis
A new study has shown that a balanced vegan diet can help sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis - see the full article on the BBC Website - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7301188.stm.
Although a small study, it backs up previous studies and experience of nutritional therapists that diet can make a big difference in rheumatoid and other forms of arthritis. Certainly we would almost always recommend to cut down saturated animal fats (from meat and dairy products), increase the 'good' essential fats (omega, 3, 6, 7 and 9) and to reduce wheat and gluten consumption. These simple changes will often make a difference quite quickly in reducing pain and inflammation, and as this study shows also lowers cholesterol and so protects the heart and arteries.
Of course when eliminating foods from your diet it's wise to get some advice from a qualified nutritional therapist who will ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you require from your diet, and this is especially challenging on a vegan diet.
Although a small study, it backs up previous studies and experience of nutritional therapists that diet can make a big difference in rheumatoid and other forms of arthritis. Certainly we would almost always recommend to cut down saturated animal fats (from meat and dairy products), increase the 'good' essential fats (omega, 3, 6, 7 and 9) and to reduce wheat and gluten consumption. These simple changes will often make a difference quite quickly in reducing pain and inflammation, and as this study shows also lowers cholesterol and so protects the heart and arteries.
Of course when eliminating foods from your diet it's wise to get some advice from a qualified nutritional therapist who will ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you require from your diet, and this is especially challenging on a vegan diet.
posted by Helen Gestwicki, MNIMH at 10:34 AM
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