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
Antioxidants May Actually Benefit People With RA
Jan 6, 2010
Now, I'm sure you've seen ads or read news blurbs about the benefits of antioxidants, and how they may be good for your overall health. There's so much information available about antioxidants that it can be hard to figure out what is most relevant to you. But what are antioxidants? And can they benefit people living with RA? In this week's article, I'd like to offer you some answers to these questions.
What are antioxidants, exactly?
Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that may help protect your body against harmful molecules that can damage your cells. Those same harmful molecules, also known as free radicals, may also disrupt your body's immune system. That's why a diet that's high in foods rich with antioxidants may help keep you healthier.
Can antioxidants help people with RA?
Along with all of their other benefits, antioxidants may actually reduce the pain and symptoms of RA. More research is being conducted to learn about the potential of antioxidants, but the results to date look promising.
How can you add antioxidants to your diet?
First, ask your doctor or rheumatologist. He or she can help you make more informed decisions about what to eat. It's also important to inform your doctor of any changes you plan on making to your diet beforehand. Then, find out what foods offer the highest levels of antioxidants. Nuts, fruits, and vegetables are all great sources. Increasing your intake of antioxidants can be a positive addition to your treatment plan. After all, it's worth learning as much as you can about ways to stay healthier, and then including them as part of your routine.
In an upcoming article, I'll take this discussion one step further and share a list of foods that can provide you with the highest amount of antioxidants. So, stay tuned for more invaluable information about antioxidants!
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