Moderate alcohol consumption and eating more fruits, oily fish, and cereals are associated with a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while tea and coffee may increase risk, according to research published in Nutrients.
A systematic review of 30 studies, involving nearly 10,000 individuals with RA, explored the effects of 32 food groups, drinks, and nutrients on RA risk. The study highlights dietary factors that may either protect against or contribute to the development of RA.
Key Findings
- Protective Foods:
- Oily Fish & Vitamin D: May reduce RA risk but offer diminishing returns with excessive intake.
- Fruits and Cereals: Regular consumption, including whole grains, is linked to reduced RA risk.
- Moderate Alcohol: Up to 7.5 units weekly (e.g., 3.5 glasses of wine or four pints of beer) lowers risk. However, benefits diminish at higher consumption levels.
- Risk-Associated Foods:
- Tea: Each additional cup/day increases RA risk by 4%, though overall risk remains low.
- Coffee: Slightly linked to increased risk, requiring further research.
Study Highlights
Ph.D. researcher Yuanyuan Dong, from the University of Leeds’ School of Food Science and Nutrition, emphasized that RA is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with diet playing a role in inflammation and immune system regulation.
Dong noted that moderate alcohol intake may offer protection, but excessive consumption increases risk. The protective effect of alcohol vanishes at approximately 7.5 units per week.
Professor Janet Cade added, “This study shows promising evidence that foods like oily fish, cereals, and vitamin D may help lower RA risk. Moderate alcohol intake may also be protective, but tea and coffee could increase risk slightly.”
The researchers stress the importance of tailored dietary advice for autoimmune conditions like RA, as a “one-size-fits-all” approach is less effective.
About Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA is a common autoimmune disease affecting over 500,000 people in the U.K. It causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, potentially leading to long-term disability. Early diagnosis, treatment, and dietary modifications can improve outcomes.
This research offers valuable insights into dietary adjustments that could reduce the risk of developing this debilitating condition.
