How can you lose weight with rheumatoid arthritis when foot and ankle pain limits exercise?
Losing weight with RA when exercise is difficult is challenging, but focusing on diet changes can make a real difference. Start small with manageable adjustments rather than trying to overhaul everything at once.
Consider these Show Full Answer
How can you lose weight with rheumatoid arthritis when foot and ankle pain limits exercise?
Losing weight with RA when exercise is difficult is challenging, but focusing on diet changes can make a real difference. Start small with manageable adjustments rather than trying to overhaul everything at once.
Consider these dietary approaches:
• Cut out high-fat foods like hamburgers and french fries as a first step
• Reduce red meat, sugary drinks and desserts, and diet soda, which have been linked to worsening RA symptoms
• Swap red meat for fish on certain days
• Choose fruit instead of processed snacks high in fat or sodium
• Eat smaller meals throughout the day to maintain steady energy
• Cut back on saturated fats, salty foods, and highly processed snacks
A healthy diet can help you lose weight and reduce pressure on your joints, which may ease your RA symptoms. Research shows that losing just 10 pounds through eating fewer calories can significantly improve joint pain and day-to-day function.
Ask your doctor for a referral to a dietitian who can help with meal ideas and healthy food choices specifically for RA. They can create a personalized plan that works with your limitations.
Even if traditional exercise is difficult, talk to your rheumatologist about chair-based activities like chair tai chi or chair yoga, which some members find helpful. A physical therapist can also develop gentle exercises that won't stress your painful joints.
March 9
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