Yes, sugar can potentially trigger RA flare-ups for some people. When your body digests sugars and refined carbohydrates, it releases pro-inflammatory substances that can worsen joint pain and stiffness.
Many myRAteam members have shared their experiences with sugar and RA symptoms:
- One myRAteam member reported avoiding Show Full Answer
Yes, sugar can potentially trigger RA flare-ups for some people. When your body digests sugars and refined carbohydrates, it releases pro-inflammatory substances that can worsen joint pain and stiffness.
Many myRAteam members have shared their experiences with sugar and RA symptoms:
- One myRAteam member reported avoiding sugary foods because they cause "dramatically increased pain and stiffness all over"
- Another myRAteam member described sugar and starch as their "number one enemy"
That said, everyone's body responds differently, so sugar may not be a trigger for everyone with RA. Beyond flares, too much sugar in your diet can also contribute to other concerns relevant to RA, such as increased cardiovascular risk and a higher chance of developing insulin resistance — both of which are already elevated risks when living with RA.
If you're thinking about reducing sugar, here are some practical tips:
- Read food labels and watch for ingredients ending in "-ose" (glucose, fructose, sucrose, dextrose)
- Avoid sugary drinks like sodas and specialty coffee drinks
- Be cautious with "sugar-free" products, as artificial sweeteners like aspartame may also worsen inflammation
- Reduce sugar gradually rather than all at once, and track any changes in your symptoms
It's always a good idea to speak with your rheumatologist or a registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes.
August 30
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