Nutrition and Rheumatoid Arthritis

By Kristine Duncan, MS, RD, CDE

Suggested CDR Learning Codes: 3020, 5000, 5120; Level 2
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) belongs to a family of rheumatic diseases linked by inflammation
and loss of function that affect joints, connective tissue, and other supporting body structures.
Specifically, RA targets the lining of the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and
deformity, though its effects are systemic.
Of the 1.3 million adults in the United States with RA, about three-quarters are women.1 The
disease most often occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, but it can be diagnosed in younger
patients.2-4 All races and ethnic groups have reported cases of the condition, and while it’s less
prevalent than osteoarthritis, RA is associated with lower health-related quality of life.4-6
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
While the cause of RA is unknown, there are several hypotheses. It’s believed certain genes
make some people more susceptible to the condition and that there may be infectious triggers,
such as bacteria or viruses in the environment.7 Other potential risk factors include age,
smoking, sex, and family history, while hormones may protect some women against the
condition.2,4,7,8
Like multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes, RA is an autoimmune disease. When the immune
system attacks the joint lining (synovium), the resulting localized inflammation causes common
RA symptoms, but systemic inflammation appears to be present as well. 2
RA first appears in the small joints of the feet and hands but can progress and involve larger
joints, often in an overall symmetrical pattern. Over time, the disease process permanently
damages bones and joints.2 Other symptoms can range from anemia, fever, eye inflammation,
infection, and fatigue to more rare conditions such as vasculitis, pericarditis, and
pleurisy.1,2,4,8,9
The disease can be unpredictable; it often alternates between flare-ups and periods of
remission but also can be unremitting.8
The goals of medical management for RA include relieving pain, decreasing inflammation,
slowing or stopping joint damage, and increasing a patient’s sense of well-being and ability to
function, with complete remission if possible. Treatment approaches vary for each patient but
often consist of some combination of pharmacotherapy, surgery, and lifestyle modifications,
such as rest, exercise, stress management, and diet.4
Considering diet as part of RA treatment is gaining ground, and while there isn’t one specific
RA diet, many patients are curious about how nutrition may play a role. Since there’s growing
interest in the idea that some particular foods may help address symptoms, dietitians can
provide needed guidance and expertise. Along with rheumatologists, orthopedists, physical
therapists, occupational therapists, nurse educators, and psychologists, dietitians can be a
valuable part of the treatment team for RA patients.4
Nutrition Assessment
RA may impair nutritional status in some patients.10-12 The standard steps of a nutrition
assessment, starting with anthropometrics, can serve as a guide for dietitians working with
these patients.
Body Weight
BMI factors prominently in RA. Obesity is associated with poorer outcomes and more
comorbidities in RA patients, while weight loss and cachexia also are common.13-15 It has been
estimated that approximately 60% of RA patients have a BMI under 25, which means the other
40% would be considered overweight or obese.10
Because of the complexities of assessing weight status in an older population, it’s
recommended that dietitians use two or more of these assessment indicators when working
with older RA patients: current weight, recent changes in weight, weight history, BMI, height,
waist circumference, and body composition.16
Labs
A review of recent lab work can help dietitians create a complete picture of a patient’s disease
state. Commonly, the primary health care provider will order some combination of tests,
including rheumatoid factor, anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, complete blood count,
white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and antinuclear antibodies.
However, there are several other lab tests that may be of particular interest to the dietitian,
including homocysteine, C-reactive protein, albumin, and lipids. Homocysteine and C-reactive
protein can indicate inflammation and may be influenced by dietary choices. Albumin levels
tend to be lower in RA patients, while inflammatory markers are higher, especially during
periods of increased disease activity.17-20 Other findings show elevated triglycerides5 and
differences in lipoprotein subclasses21 in RA patients.
It’s important to note that erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein can be
significantly higher in malnourished patients.10
It’s also necessary to consider the disease state when interpreting lab values. Blood lipids in
particular can change during periods of active disease. Data suggest that LDL and HDL
cholesterol levels can be unusually low in RA patients but will return to normal as the patient
enters periods of improvement.5,22
Activities of Daily Living
While dietitians rarely carry out complete physical assessments, a superficial visual evaluation
of a patient’s appearance may offer clues about wasting or changes in appetite. In addition, the
telltale rheumatoid nodules on the hands may prompt questions about the ease of shopping,
cooking, eating, and other related activities of daily living that can affect a patient’s nutritional
status.

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For RA patients aged 65 and older, 79% report some limitation of activities related to their
health compared with 67% of those with osteoarthritis and 57% of those without arthritis. 6
Diet History
In addition to the traditional questions about food and beverage choices, allergies, and
intolerances, a discussion of current and past diet strategies can be valuable in this population.
Diet has been studied as a possible modifiable risk factor for RA, and many patients already
may have experimented with their diets on their own. The most common eating strategies
attempted by some people with RA are vegetarian, vegan, Mediterranean, elemental, and
elimination.23
RA patients often adopt dietary changes with hopes of symptom improvement. 23,24 The idea
that diet may affect inflammation is beginning to gather scientific support, which positions diet
as a potential treatment for RA in particular.25 As the science has advanced over the years,
diet has continued to gain favor as a possible way to affect this disease, 24 so it may seem like
a new treatment option compared with the standard choices. Patients also can be motivated to
try diet modifications because pharmaceutical treatments can cause undesirable side effects.
Medications
Since there’s no cure for RA, the primary treatment strategy relies on the use of drugs to try to
control pain and minimize additional joint damage. During a nutrition assessment, it’s important
for dietitians to consider a patient’s drug regimen since many can have nutritional
consequences.
The three main classes of medications used to treat RA are disease-modifying antirheumatic
drugs (DMARDs), anti-inflammatories, and analgesics. Because the drugs often have multiple
functions, there’s some overlap in how they’re categorized and prescribed.
DMARDs such as methotrexate and sulfasalazine often are the first line of defense after an RA
diagnosis.1,3 One particular class of DMARDs, biologic response modifiers, targets the immune
system and works in a variety of ways. Abatacept (Orencia) interrupts communication between
inflammatory cells, and rituximab (Rituxan) tries to stop the immune system’s attack on the
joints, while tumor necrosis factor antagonists such as adalimumab (HUMIRA) work by
blocking inflammatory proteins.4,26,27
Aspirin and other NSAIDs often are used in conjunction with DMARDs to control both
inflammation and pain.1,3 Steroids such as prednisone are classified as anti-inflammatories
and generally are reserved for disease flare-ups because of serious side effects.2
These drugs are powerful tools in the treatment of RA, but they aren’t without difficulties. While
all drugs carry some risk of side effects, a review of nutrition-related side effects in particular is
advisable so dietitians can assess the impact on patients’ food intake.
About 1% to 3% of patients taking methotrexate experience mouth sores (stomatitis), while
other DMARDs are associated with abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, sore tongue,
and nausea.28,29 And because of their effect on the immune system, biologic response
modifiers can put patients at increased risk of infection.3

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Stomach irritation, ulcers, and bleeding sometimes accompany NSAID use. 3,4 One particular
NSAID, celecoxib (Celebrex), carries some risk of heart attack and stroke, which must be
considered for each individual’s situation.3 When using steroids, patients often complain of
increased thirst and weight gain but also can experience hyperglycemia. 2,29
In addition to nutrition-related side effects, dietitians should be on the lookout for drug-nutrient
interactions in this population. For instance, methotrexate is a folic acid antagonist, so
deficiency is a concern with ongoing use.29 This can be addressed with supplements, and the
use of folic or folinic acid has been shown to reduce side effects associated with this
medication, specifically gastrointestinal problems, liver dysfunction, and possibly even
stomatitis.28,30 Also, corticosteroids can reduce sodium excretion while simultaneously
increasing calcium and potassium losses, so dietary adjustments may be necessary. 29 To
minimize the risk of osteoporosis associated with long-term corticosteroid use, vitamin D and
calcium supplements sometimes are recommended.4,29
Supplements
Even though RA medications are effective, many people try supplements or other therapies
with the hope of reducing inflammation and pain. One-quarter of the RA patients participating
in a nutrient intake study were taking vitamin supplements when they began the trial, and a
significant number of adults older than age 75 took more than one dietary supplement. 10,16
However, the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of most supplements, such as
feverfew, stinging nettle, and cat’s claw, is limited or preliminary or has failed to demonstrate
definitive benefits for RA patients.4,31
Dietitians should keep in mind that there are safety concerns, side effects, and drug
interactions associated with supplements.31,32 For example, even though thunder god vine has
demonstrated positive effects on the immune system, its significant list of serious side effects
makes it too risky to justify its benefits.32
There’s promising early research on boswellia, ginger, green tea, and turmeric for addressing
RA symptoms but not enough to recommend them as treatments, especially in supplement
form.32 However, it would be safe to include food items such as ginger, green tea, and turmeric
in the diet, with measured expectations.
Ultimately, because of the FDA’s limited ability to regulate or verify effectiveness or safety, the
American College of Rheumatology doesn’t recommend using herbal remedies to treat RA.31
Fluids
Regular fluid intake in RA patients should be addressed for several reasons. First, intake for
older adults often falls short of recommended targets, possibly due to diminished perception of
thirst or changes in cognitive status. Also, patients consciously may limit intake to minimize
trips to the bathroom to avoid the associated arthritis pain.16
Because of concerns about liver damage and gastrointestinal bleeding, alcohol should be
avoided while taking acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and methotrexate, and possibly other
medications used to treat RA.4,28,33

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Other Considerations
Patients’ sex, economic status, and mental health status also should be considered as part of
a nutrition assessment. Women can experience more adverse effects from RA than men,
particularly with regard to disease severity, work disability, and remission rates. 34 The disease
can negatively affect employment,8 which can significantly impact finances. In fact, one study
found that self-reported weight-related disability and arthritis correlated with twice the risk of
being food insecure.35
Coping with chronic pain can be a heavy burden. Besides affecting adherence to a treatment
plan, the depression and anxiety reported among RA patients can impact nutritional status.8,9
Nutrition Diagnosis
Using data collected during the nutrition assessment, dietitians can prioritize nutrition-related
concerns to formulate a plan of intervention for RA patients.
Several comorbidities can present with RA, the most common and well documented being
cardiovascular disease. It’s estimated that 40% of deaths in RA patients can be traced to
cardiovascular disease, though it’s unknown whether this comorbidity results from the disease
process, the medications used to treat the condition, or another link, including
inflammation.5,8,20,36-38 Possible causes of cardiovascular disease in patients with arthritis
include undesirable lipid values paired with chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, or
abnormal homocysteine metabolism.18,19,21,37 Also, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and arthritis are
the three most prevalent health conditions among older adults, 39 so there’s a strong possibility
of risk factor overlap in this age group.
Osteoporosis is a risk because of RA itself but can be compounded by the addition of
medications commonly used as part of RA treatment, such as oral glucocorticoids. 2,4,40 Again,
systemic and localized inflammation likely are the culprits of osteoporosis, as there appears to
be bone loss not only in affected joints but in other areas of the body as well. Fracture risk is
higher for patients with longstanding RA or a low BMI.40
Two issues of special interest with this population are rheumatoid cachexia and weight loss.
Rheumatoid cachexia is the loss of body cell mass, principally in skeletal muscle.36 While the
exact etiology is unclear, hypermetabolism and reduced energy intake have been
suggested.12,14 In particular, there seems to be a significant loss of fat-free mass influenced by
the frequency, duration, and intensity of disease flare-ups.14 There also appears to be a higher
resting energy expenditure during times of increased disease activity, possibly tied to levels of
interleukin-6.15
There are consequences of extreme weight loss, as a BMI below 20 is tied to increased
cardiovascular mortality.36 Nutrition intervention can help achieve a BMI in the normal range,
though controlling disease activity may be more effective.15
Temporomandibular disorder, which affects the muscles and joints used to move the jaw, and
Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that diminishes production of saliva and tears,
can be present with RA as well.1,3,9,12,29 The likely nutrition-related concerns are difficulty
chewing or dry mouth, respectively.29

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Nutrition Intervention
For nearly 90 years, diet has been suggested as a possible treatment for RA. 24 As with
diabetes, some research suggests that metabolic and cellular changes occur early in the
disease process, even before diagnosis, and that cardiac events affect young adults with RA
early on.18,20,38 Whether or not a specific nutrient or diet can influence this disease, correcting
nutrient deficiencies and addressing comorbidities are sensible priorities.41 Assessing and
adjusting nutritional intake soon after a diagnosis is ideal.
Calories
To avoid the pitfalls of both obesity and underweight, care should be taken when estimating
energy needs for RA patients, as there may be subtle metabolic differences between those
with and without the disease. Calorie needs decrease with age, but it’s possible that they may
increase to some extent for individuals with RA, mirroring changes in disease activity. 14,15
One study reported that patients with active RA experienced a resting energy expenditure only
1% higher compared with control patients. But when corrected for fat-free mass, the difference
in resting energy expenditure was significant, with 62 kcal/kg of fat-free mass per day for those
with RA compared with 46 kcal/kg for the controls.15
Even though resting energy expenditure is elevated due to hypermetabolism, physical activity
expenditure can be 250 kcal lower in women with RA, which would affect total energy
expenditure.42,43 As a result, increased energy intake isn’t advised, especially with the risk of
fat accumulation, leading to possible overweight or obesity, which can be especially risky in
these patients.13,42
Some research has shown that lower fat-free mass is responsible for lower BMI in RA patients,
and that increased disease and metabolic activity may speed the loss.15 In rheumatoid
cachexia, loss of fat-free mass often occurs without weight loss or a reduction in calorie intake
and, in some cases, occurs with a gain in fat mass.43
Whatever the cause, preserving fat-free mass is essential, particularly to minimize the risk of
infections and death and to maintain quality of life.14,43 This generally can be achieved with
exercise, diet, and pharmacological interventions.43
Determining the appropriateness of weight-loss intervention in older adults takes careful
consideration of risks vs benefits, with attention given to patients’ classification as overweight
or obese, the presence of comorbidities, physical and cognitive function, attitude toward
longevity, lifestyle, desired quality of life (eg, improved mobility) and, ultimately, personal
feelings about undertaking weight loss. While it may seem obvious to initiate weight loss for an
obese client, muscle loss can be augmented in older adults, which can negatively affect their
capacity for independent living.16
Protein
While the Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein is sufficient for most seniors, some
experts advocate that they consume as much as 1 to 1.6 g/kg of body weight to minimize the
loss of muscle mass.16
So far, an optimal protein intake for the RA population hasn’t been identified.43 Dietitians can
rely on the available guidelines to establish an individualized target for their clients.

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Fats
Healthful monounsaturated fats may benefit RA patients, particularly olive oil, which often is
credited with some of the health benefits associated with the Mediterranean diet, possibly due
to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.44-47 Oleocanthal, along with
other phenolic compounds in the oil, may be responsible for the benefits, as it’s been shown to
inhibit some of the same inflammatory pathways as does ibuprofen.44,45
Based on their reputation for possibly modulating the inflammatory response, omega-3s also
have been touted as a possible treatment for RA.48 Study participants have reported
improvement in morning stiffness and tender joints when taking omega-3 supplements, which
also may result in less reliance on NSAIDs or corticosteroids.32,48-50 However, according to the
American College of Rheumatology, the results aren’t dramatic and may take weeks or months
to occur.31
Because of the positive effects related to cardiovascular disease and inflammation, 48,51 fish or
fish oils could offer a double benefit for this population. However, studies on the specific dose
needed to positively affect the inflammatory process are lacking.52 One study examined the
effects of 1-g fish oil supplements in female RA patients and found an increase in their HDL
cholesterol levels.53 However, a review of nondrug treatments concluded that diets rich in
omega-3 fats, as well as other therapeutic diets, shouldn’t be recommended for RA patients
because of inconsistent and modest results improving pain and stiffness and the risk of
deficiency from being “unbalanced.”41
There are no specific guidelines for saturated fat intake for patients with RA, although its
consumption has been positively associated with inflammatory markers such as C-reactive
protein and interleukin-8.54,55
Fat intake may influence inflammation in the body in other ways as well. The high ratio of
omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids common in the Western diet is considered proinflammatory,56
while the omega-6 gamma-linolenic acid is thought to be potentially anti-inflammatory.
Gamma-linolenic acid is found in black currant, borage, and evening primrose supplements but
needs more study before being suggested for RA patients to address inflammation. 32
Given this information, a safe course of action for dietitians likely would be recommending the
standard levels of dietary fat appropriate for preventing or treating cardiovascular disease or at
least attempting to manage existing dyslipidemia if present, 18 giving special attention to
management of cardiac risk factors in RA patients with low BMI or who are losing weight. 36
Vitamins and Minerals
Although clinical practice guidelines lack strong support for treating RA with nutritional
supplements,57 it makes sense for patients to maximize their nutrient intake from food and
possibly rely on supplements to address RA comorbidities.
Low vitamin B6 and high homocysteine levels have been found in older women with RA. It’s
believed that a low intake or low blood values of folate and vitamins B 6 and B12 correlate with
elevated homocysteine, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In addition, some
medications commonly prescribed for RA can positively or negatively affect homocysteine
levels.19

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Some women with RA also report suboptimal intakes of vitamin B 6, calcium, folic acid, zinc,
magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12 compared with the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs), and
serum levels of zinc, selenium, and vitamins A and E can be low. 10,11,25
As mentioned earlier, adequate folate intake especially is important for RA patients being
treated with methotrexate, so folate supplementation may be necessary.30 Because of the
increased risk of osteoporosis, adequate vitamin D and calcium intakes are an important part
of any nutrition intervention for the condition.4
Antirheumatic treatment is suggested for anemia associated with RA, and iron supplements
are contraindicated.58,59 At this time, there’s no evidence to support recommending to patients
vitamin or mineral intakes higher than the DRIs.
Fruits and Vegetables
Older adults can encounter unique barriers to increased fruit and vegetable consumption,
including financial and functional limitations, dental problems, and difficulty shopping and
cooking. Antioxidant intake may be of particular importance for this age group, as appropriate
intake is tied to fewer degenerative diseases and improved physiologic function.16 In addition,
foods rich in antioxidants, including fruits and vegetables, can help mediate inflammation 55 and
provide important vitamins and minerals.
Cherries have received particular attention for their possible health benefits associated with
RA, including lowering inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and nitric oxide.60
More research is needed before cherries can be considered a viable treatment for the
condition,61 but they can be included in the diet to increase fruit consumption.
Dietary Patterns
In addition to highlighting individual nutrients, overall dietary strategies have shown some
success in improving RA symptoms. While the research on vegetarian, vegan, Mediterranean,
elemental, or elimination diets—those most commonly tried by this patient population—has
been described as inconsistent, inadequate, modest, uncertain, inconclusive, not indicated,
and having no definite benefit, dietary strategies in general have been noted as inexpensive,
promising, worth trying, achievable, feasible, and a useful addition to traditional
therapy.4,23,24,32,41,46,47,50,57,62 Hypotheses for the diet’s role in addressing RA include changes
in antioxidant or fat intake, body weight, and gut flora; limiting exposure to particular foods that
exacerbate arthritis symptoms; and reduction in gut permeability to bacteria and
antigens.24,47,63
Earlier studies have found that some RA patients experienced pain reduction by following a
vegetarian- or Mediterranean-style diet after a period of fasting.23,47,62,64 It’s possible that
dietary choices either suppress or enhance the inflammatory process through effects on
individual markers in the blood or the immune system.25,55,65,66
The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in plant foods, fish, and olive oil and low in red meat, has
shown a reduction in pain and disease activity with a simultaneous increase in physical
function and vitality.24 Specifically, this type of eating, which is considered nutritionally
adequate, may offer RA patients a key benefit since it also can improve cardiovascular risk

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factors.46,47 Similarly, a vegetarian eating pattern is thought to provide a higher intake of fruits,
vegetables, and antioxidants and a lower intake of saturated fat. 24
Though no single diet has emerged as a successful strategy for treating RA patients, it’s
possible that individuals may have unique intolerances or allergies to particular foods that
contribute to their RA symptoms.3,32 Results are mixed for elimination diets,23,24 though some
researchers have concluded they aren’t advised for the RA population.41,57
However, if patients keep food records for an overall dietary assessment, dietitians can review
them for potential problem foods. One follow-up study of subjects with RA identified an
increase in symptoms after the reintroduction of meat, coffee, sweets, and refined sugar to the
diet.25 Other researchers identified rice, cornmeal, cornbread, hydrolyzed milk, fresh pineapple,
and cooked apple as hypoallergenic, and wheat, eggs, milk, strawberries, acidic fruits,
chocolate, shellfish, and dried fruit as allergenic in a diet trial for RA. 67 Though no significant
improvement resulted for this group as a whole, there were individual subjects who responded
well, and the authors highlighted the importance of individualized treatment.
Two studies reported on using an elemental diet, a liquid diet of easily absorbable nutrients
that provides amino acids in place of intact proteins, as a short-term treatment for RA and
found some improvement in disease symptoms. Unfortunately, the benefits were lost once
regular diets were reinstated, and there was a high drop-out rate.24 Another study found a two-
week elemental diet to be as effective as corticosteroids in affecting subjective measures of
disease activity but not in laboratory tests such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-
reactive protein.63
As with many hopeful treatments for chronic disease, diet therapy for RA requires more and
longer studies before specific practice guidelines can be developed. Nevertheless, dietitians
can provide guidance and encouragement and also can help ensure nutritional adequacy for
clients wanting to experiment with diet changes. For some patients, taking this type of action
can offer a feeling of control over what often is an overwhelming diagnosis.24,50 It’s common for
people with RA to gravitate toward foods that are easy to prepare and eat, 68 so providing new
ideas for healthful recipes that meet these criteria may be especially well received.
Even if there isn’t a unique food pattern that improves RA, a balanced diet is recommended for
optimal health. So it makes sense for dietitians to review with clients recommendations such
as the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans while stressing that they achieve or maintain an
appropriate body weight and include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium-rich
foods in their diets.10 As with any nutrition intervention, dietitians should discuss the possible
benefits and risks while also considering patients’ readiness to change.
Associated Difficulties
Helping clients prepare for the difficulties associated with dietary change can be effective. A
review of 15 studies warned that the types of diets patients with RA often experiment with may
be challenging to maintain, and that many result in approximately 6 lbs of unintended weight
loss.23,47 Depending on a patient’s status, this weight loss could be positive or negative. Of
course, if the patient undertook significant dietary changes without adequate preparation,
deficiencies could surface as well.

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It’s recommended that dietitians involve the patient’s whole family in the discussion of food and
cooking, as social relationships can be the primary obstacle to sustained dietary change
among RA patients. Although not unique to RA, altering established eating and shopping
patterns inside and outside the home because of medical issues can embarrass and
inconvenience a patient and may result in disapproval or resistance from family members or
social circles.69
Referrals and Resources
Making appropriate referrals and offering additional resources also is an important part of
dietitians’ work with RA patients. For instance, an occupational therapist can recommend
assistive devices for the kitchen, and a fitness expert can encourage exercise with necessary
adaptations. The Arthritis Foundation and American Heart Association also have useful diet
information available for patients such as choosing foods to fight inflammation and identifying
sources of healthful fats and oils.
Nutrition Monitoring and Evaluation
Ongoing monitoring will allow dietitians to reevaluate RA patients’ nutrition care plans.
Changes in patients’ medication regimens may necessitate additional counseling on nutrition-
related side effects and medication-nutrient interactions.
The following are basic nutrition management goals for RA, but variations are possible based
on individual patients:3,4,6,14,38,41,70

 achievement of nutritional adequacy and correction of nutrient deficiencies;

 management of medication side effects and medication-nutrient interactions;

 achievement and maintenance of a healthy BMI while preserving fat-free mass;

 prevention or treatment of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and

osteoporosis;

 reduction of pain and inflammation; and

 optimization of food-related activities of daily living and quality of life.

Final Thoughts
While comprehensive nutrition practice guidelines are limited for RA, there are areas within
dietitians’ scope of practice that can be targeted to help patients. But RA is a costly diagnosis,8
so it’s possible that nutrition counseling may be considered an unnecessary cost and left out of
the treatment plan unless the dietitian advocates for it. And diet change can be challenging for
anyone, let alone for those struggling with a debilitating chronic disease. Despite successful
education, an overburdened patient who’s trying to cope with multiple comorbidities and
medications may have limited success. Motivational interviewing, for example, may help
patients identify what change they’re ready to make to help improve their diagnosis and daily
lives.71,72 This client-centered counseling can shift decision making away from the clinician to
the individual. When executed skillfully, this can guide the client to find internal motivation
instead of relying on the dietitian exclusively to foster external rationale for change. 72

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Moreover, there are some areas of research on the horizon that may affect nutrition practice
and RA in the future. The relationship of gut flora to inflammation and the immune system is
gaining scientific ground.66,73,74 And some scientists have suggested that each person’s gene
profile will determine his or her response to various interventions, even dietary approaches. 75,76
Epigenetics and genetic testing may someday lead to the ultimate in personalized nutrition
recommendations for RA.
—Kristine Duncan, MS, RD, CDE, is a nutrition instructor at Skagit Valley College in Mount
Vernon, Washington, who is also a freelance writer and a nutrition blogger.
Click here for tip sheet “Nutrition Considerations for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis.”

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Examination

1. Jordan’s rheumatologist added a new medication to her regimen one month ago
because of a particularly bad flare-up of her rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Since then, she’s
gained about 5 lbs and has been experiencing higher-than-normal blood sugar. What
medication likely is responsible for her new onset of symptoms?
A. Abatacept
B. Celecoxib
C. Prednisone
D. Sulfasalazine

2. Wendy has been taking methotrexate for two years to treat her RA. During your initial
nutrition assessment, Wendy reports that she’s not taking any vitamin or mineral
supplements and instead tries to eat well. What supplement could you recommend to
minimize a medication-nutrient interaction and possible deficiency?
A. Folic acid
B. Selenium
C. Zinc
D. Vitamin A

3. Which nutritionally adequate diet that is high in plant foods, fish, and olive oil, and
low in red meat has been studied as a treatment for RA and also may improve
cardiovascular risk?
A. Elemental
B. Gluten-free
C. Mediterranean
D. Vegan

4. As part of an individualized nutrition assessment of an RA patient, in addition to body

weight, labs, activities of daily living, diet history, and medications, which of the
following should you also consider?
A. Protein efficiency ratio
B. Sex
C. Season/time of year
D. Sleep habits

5. Which highly individualized and variable factor can affect lab values, resting energy
expenditure, and rate of fat-free mass loss in an RA patient?
A. Activities of daily living
B. Age at diagnosis
C. Alcohol intake
D. Level of disease activity

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6. Which of the following has been suggested as the primary obstacle to sustained
dietary change in RA patients?
A. Allergies and intolerances
B. Cost of special foods
C. Mental health status
D. Social relationships

7. Which of the following could be considered an appropriate nutrition management

goal for most RA patients?
A. Correction of nutrient deficiencies
B. Increase in gamma-linolenic acid intake
C. Minimization of carbohydrate intake
D. Prevention of gallstone formation

8. Since retirement, Sheena has gained more than 30 lbs. Now she’s wondering if losing
weight would help her RA symptoms. What is one possible unintended consequence of
implementing weight loss in an obese older adult?
A. Associated muscle loss
B. Increased fat-free mass
C. Decreased HDL cholesterol
D. Decreased C-reactive protein

9. What seems to be the most likely condition linking RA with cardiovascular disease
and osteoporosis?
A. Fever
B. Hyperalbuminemia
C. Inflammation
D. Pellagra

10. After an initial assessment of a patient who’s had RA for more than 20 years, you
note a BMI of 18.5. What three comorbidities would be your primary concern for further
assessment and possible intervention?
A. Anemia of chronic disease, eye inflammation, and infection
B. Bone fracture, cardiac death, and rheumatoid cachexia
C. Depression, heartburn, and nausea
D. Malnutrition, pericarditis, and vasculitis

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