Psoriatic Arthritis Diet: What Arthritic Patients Need to Know

Arthritis, of any type, can be debilitating and lead to a reduction in quality of life. For individuals who are suffering from psoriatic arthritis, the side effects of this debilitating condition can lead to early retirement and disability that is physical in nature. It is important, as a patient with psoriatic arthritis, that you understand not only what traditional medical care you should consider but also what is involved in adapting a psoriatic arthritis diet.

Like many diets associated with arthritis, patients who have psoriatic arthritis must adapt an eating plan that will minimize the symptoms of the arthritic condition while also eating in such a way that allows medications to work effectively. Upon receiving the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis, it is important, therefore, to meet with a nutritionist or dietician who understands what psoriatic arthritis diet should be adapted.

To minimize symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, your diet will typically require that you eliminate high carbohydrate foods, eliminate alcohol, and also eliminate fatty foods, spicy foods, and foods that contain caffeine. Because these foods and beverages can cause inflammation and, thereby, exacerbate arthritis pain, the nutritionist will usually make these reductions and eliminations a top priority for you. Even if you are using acupuncture for rheumatoid arthritis, nothing will circumvent the need for a good quality diet.

In addition to eliminating certain foods and beverages, your nutritionist may also require a specific eating plan that involves meals at certain times of the day. Because some medications for psoriatic arthritis are best used in the morning hours, your dietary requirements will require that you eat breakfast and take medications prior to beginning your daily activities. In contrast, there may be medications that work best while you sleep and, as a result, your dietary recommendations may include a late night snack.

No matter what you may believe about your diet and its relation to psoriatic arthritis, always seek out the medical guidance of a healthcare provider who can make referral to a nutritionist or dietician. In doing so, you can get a confirmed meal plan and psoriatic arthritis diet program that will optimize your traditional medical care and minimize your symptoms for the long term.

Sources: Atlas of Psoriatic Arthritis, by Philip Mease