ANTIINFLAMMATORY DIET IN RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS

Diet may contribute to relieving the inflammatory process in rheumatoid arthritis, and to decrease the need for drugs. Reduced intake of arachidonic acid due to a lacto-vegetarian diet, and inhibition of eicosanoid production by fish oil fatty acids have been established measures. The relevance of antioxidants, e. g. vitamin E and C and trace elements, needs further investigation. A combination of antioxidants seems more effective than one single compound. To prevent osteoporosis, a usual complication of rheumatoid arthritis, adequate calcium intake and a balanced diet are important.