About This Column
Here you'll find advice on how to take a more comprehensive approach toward managing your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Keep in mind, this column is intended to advise you on how to complement your treatment, not replace it. Please consult your doctor to determine what advice may be right for you.
Featured Article
Good and Bad Fats: Part 1
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Dec 24, 2008
During the holiday season, we're often tempted to feast on all sorts of fatty foods. But did you know that some fats might actually be good for you? In this week's article we'll be talking about omega-3 fatty acids, which are generally considered "good" fats for people living with RA. And next week, we'll take a look at a close cousin of omega-3s—omega-6s—which can be "bad" for you if overeaten.
Scientists are continuing to study the impact of fatty acids, but some suggest that omega-3s may have a positive effect on inflammation. If you and your rheumatologist decide that increasing your intake of omega-3s would be worth your while, it's very simple to do. The highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids can be found naturally in cold-water fatty fish, such as Atlantic salmon, sockeye salmon, lake trout, and canned tuna (in oil or water). Interestingly enough, the US Department of Agriculture recommends 2 servings (3.5-ounce portions) of these fish a week. So not only could they affect your inflammation, but they could also be doing your overall health a favor.
Salmon, trout, and tuna can all be prepared in a number of ways that are not only healthy, but also delicious. (And there are a number of sites online that have recipes that fit the bill.) To avoid adding unnecessary fat to the cooking process, consider broiling, baking, or grilling the fish with seasonings to suit your taste. Avoid heavy, fat-laden sauces to keep calories from fat to a minimum.
If you don't like eating fish (or at least any of the ones listed above), you can consider taking a supplement instead. The key word, of course, is "consider." You should always check with your rheumatologist before making any changes to your diet, but that's especially true of supplements. There may be some that you should avoid because of the treatment you're taking and others that should be avoided altogether. In any case, your rheumatologist knows best.
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