Is butter okay to use when cooking with rheumatoid arthritis?
Butter can be included in moderation as part of an anti-inflammatory diet for RA. One myRAteam member shared their experience following a keto diet that included butter alongside other fats and proteins, and they noticed less pain and reduced finger stiffness Show Full Answer
Is butter okay to use when cooking with rheumatoid arthritis?
Butter can be included in moderation as part of an anti-inflammatory diet for RA. One myRAteam member shared their experience following a keto diet that included butter alongside other fats and proteins, and they noticed less pain and reduced finger stiffness after four weeks.
However, it's important to know that saturated fats (which butter contains) have been linked to higher disease activity in people with RA. The key is moderation and balance.
For cooking, you might also consider using extra virgin olive oil, which is a staple of the Mediterranean diet. This eating pattern has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein in people with RA.
The best approach is to focus on minimizing processed foods and refined carbohydrates while incorporating healthy fats. Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare providers about dietary changes, as what works can vary from person to person.
December 8, 2025