5 healthy snacks that ease rheumatoid arthritis pain

There are certain ailments that aren’t life-threatening but can wreak havoc on your life unless you take serious measures to manage it. Rheumatoid arthritis is one such chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint pain and damage throughout the body. What makes living with rheumatoid arthritis so difficult is that the pain usually occurs on both sides of the body; so, if a joint in one of your arms or legs is affected, then the same joint in the other arm or leg will be affected as well. This is what makes rheumatoid arthritis different from other types of arthritis.

Though there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are certain treatment methods that are meant to help keep the condition under control. Also, you’ll have to make certain lifestyle amends as it helps you manage rheumatoid arthritis better. This involves adhering to a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet. This diet does not have to be boring; you can try these healthy snacks that are tasty and help in managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Walnuts

Snacking on nuts is always a healthy option. If you are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, walnuts will prove to be your go-to healthy snack. It is nutrient-dense and loaded with compounds that are instrumental in reducing the inflammation associated with this condition. Moreover, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are known to decrease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, several studies assert that foods rich in omega-3 can reduce the pain associated with this condition.

Berries

Berries are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and all these make it the perfect snack as it helps in decreasing inflammation. Also, berries are quite rich in quercetin and rutin, two plant compounds that are known to have numerous health benefits; quercetin and rutin are known to block some of the inflammatory processes caused by arthritis. You can consider snacking on strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, as these will definitely appease to your sweet tooth and help fight rheumatoid arthritis symptoms as well.

Kale chips

You don’t have to swear off chips forever. All you have to do is swap potatoes for kale. Kale is extremely healthy, which makes kale chips the perfect healthy snack. Kale chips have become quite popular owing to its health benefits and because it simply tastes good. Kale is full of antioxidants and helps in preventing cell damage and inflammation. Moreover, since you’ll have to bake kale chips and not fry them, these will help you keep your weight in check.

Crackers and salmon

Salmon is the powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids and has anti-inflammatory properties. So, you can make your very own version of fish and chips. You’ll need cooked salmon, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and whole wheat crackers for this snack. This is one of the easiest healthy snack options for people with rheumatoid arthritis as all you have to do is mix the olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a vinaigrette and add the salmon to it. Place this on the top of the crackers, and et voila! Your crackers and salmon is ready to serve.

Low-fat dairy

Dairy products should be an essential part of your diet as they are rich in calcium and vitamin D—both of which are essential for bones and overall health. With rheumatoid arthritis, you’ll have to pay special attention to protecting your bones, and there’s no better way than adding dairy products to your diet. You can consider adding low-fat string cheese or low-fat yogurt as these will take the edge off your hunger and keep you healthy while doing so.