Polymyalgia rheumatica can be a very painful chronic condition. Since doctors are not sure what the main cause of it is, treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica mainly focuses on symptom management. This includes taking a corticosteroid to manage pain and inflammation around the joints. Being mindful of your diet and the way it can affect underlying conditions is always important, but with polymyalgia rheumatica it can be imperative. Here are a few foods to eat and avoid in order to best manage the symptoms.
Avoid Inflammatory Foods
Since the main symptom of polymyalgia rheumatica is inflammation, it is extremely important to avoid foods that could worsen that. Foods that have been known to cause inflammation include fried foods, refined carbohydrates (like white bread), processed meat, and alcohol. Highly sugary foods as well as processed foods are also not recommended. Knowing what foods to avoid can help you create a balanced and healthy diet that manages polymyalgia rheumatica to the best of your abilities.
Seek Out Fresh Foods
While it might seem like all of your favorite foods have made it onto the “avoid” list, there are still many delicious options that won’t trigger a painful flare up. These foods can help support your immune system to assist your body in fighting inflammation. Additionally, these foods can also help combat some of the symptoms that come as a side effect from medication. These side effects can include increased blood sugar, increased weight gain, and osteoporosis.
Foods that can be very helpful are those high in healthy fats, such as omega-3. Fish oil is a great source of omega-3 and many health stores provide it as a capsule supplement. Other foods that have high portions of omega-3 include eggs, salmon, and walnuts. To manage symptoms like osteoporosis, it is important to have a high intake of calcium and vitamin D. Dairy is an excellent source of calcium but broccoli and spinach also contain high doses of it as well. Foods that are high in vitamin D include egg yolk, salmon, and tuna.
Keep Hydrated
Water is essential to life and has many properties that help soothe the body. Keeping hydrated is a great way to avoid inflammation. Tracking how much water you drink and striving to drink three liters a day is recommended. This is even more important if you enjoy consuming tea or coffee, which both have a dehydrating effect on your body. While coffee has been linked to providing an anti-inflammatory effect, it is important to counteract the diuretic effect by drinking even more water.
The best way to manage polymatic rheumatica is by managing the symptoms it causes through a healthy and balanced diet. We at Advanced Rheumatology Houston are here to help guide you in making healthy changes to live a happier life. With our years of experience, we would be happy to help find the best way to manage your symptoms, which can include discussing your diet. Call us today at (281) 766-7886 to get the support you deserve.