From the Guidelines
The functional medicine protocol for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) should prioritize a comprehensive approach that incorporates exercise, rehabilitation, diet, and additional integrative interventions, as recommended by the 2022 American College of Rheumatology guideline 1. This approach emphasizes the importance of using integrative interventions in conjunction with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, according to ACR guidelines for pharmacologic treatment of RA. Key components of this protocol include:
- Using exercise and rehabilitation to improve physical function and reduce symptoms
- Implementing a balanced diet that may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health
- Considering additional integrative interventions, such as stress reduction techniques and mind-body therapies, to support overall well-being It is essential to work with an interprofessional healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the individual's unique needs and circumstances. By taking a comprehensive and integrative approach to managing RA, individuals can potentially reduce their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and slow disease progression. In terms of specific dietary recommendations, the protocol may involve eliminating potential trigger foods and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 rich foods, into the diet. However, the most critical aspect of the functional medicine protocol for RA is to work with a qualified healthcare practitioner to develop a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes the individual's unique needs and circumstances, as highlighted in the 2022 American College of Rheumatology guideline 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Dietary Interventions for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- The ideal dietary approach for managing RA involves consuming a balanced diet that reduces inflammation and promotes overall health 2.
- A food pyramid for patients with RA recommends daily consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, light yogurt, skim milk, and extra virgin olive oil, with weekly portions of fish, white meat, legumes, eggs, and seasoned cheeses 2.
- Certain foods, such as salt and sugar, should be avoided, while others, like gluten, lactose, and meat, may need to be limited or excluded from the diet 3.
Specific Diets and Their Effects on RA
- The Mediterranean diet has been shown to improve pain and physical function in people living with RA, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in preventing the disease 4.
- A privative diet that excludes meat, gluten, and lactose has been found to reduce inflammation and improve quality of life in RA patients 3.
- Omega-3 supplementation, either alone or in combination with dietary interventions, may also have beneficial effects on RA symptoms, although further research is needed to fully understand its effects 5.
Key Components of a Functional Medicine Protocol for RA
- A personalized approach to dietary interventions, taking into account individual needs and health status 2.
- Regular monitoring of disease activity, inflammation, and quality of life to assess the effectiveness of dietary interventions 6, 3.
- Consideration of potential interactions between dietary interventions and conventional or biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) 3.