How could diet affect rheumatoid arthritis?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    The relationship between diet and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not well understood, although there is a connection between diet and the immune system. People with RA should consult their physician before starting any special diet because the effects of specific diets on RA symptoms are still a topic of ongoing research.

    Although there is a clear relationship between diet and the immune system, the relationship between nutritional status and autoimmunity is not well understood. The effect of particular diets (e.g., the Mediterranean diet, vegetarian, elimination diets) on RA symptoms and pathology is currently unclear, but it's an active area of research. Therefore, people with RA should consult closely with their physician or rheumatologist before starting a special diet.[1]