Thursday, May 31, 2012

dietary changes

By Ruth Thursday, October 22, 2009

I have a question for people who have stated that they have been helping their RA with dietary changes.  I have seen a lot of info stating that cutting out wheat is helpful, does anyone know what is the protein in the wheat that is suspected? I ask that because it would make a difference as to what grains are substituted.  I was recently started on enbrel because the MTX was not cutting it anymore.  I have also been trying to follow a whole grain vegetarian diet to lessen cardiovascular disease, since I have several other risk factors for that.  When I recently went for blood work my liver enzymes were elevated.  So I want to cut out my cholesterol med, anyway that brings me back to the question, what whole grains can be used if wheat is eliminated.  I can't live on brown rice and oatmeal.  Is spelt acceptable?  how about amaranth or barley?

good news
10/23/09 12:26pm

Hi Ruth,

  From what I have read, the triggers vary from person to person and it is through trial and error that you will find your triggers.   The best thing to do is a juice fast first to start with a clean slate and then GRADUALLY add new foods.  Or you can eliminate foods and gradually reintroduce them, but this will take longer.  

  Please see my previous post of today.  I hope you find your answers!

Kim

Lene Andersen, Health Guide
10/23/09 12:52pm

I don't know very much about the specifics of a whole grain diet, but if you follow the link, you may learn more.  As well, the Mediterrenean Diet has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, as well as being recommended for heart health, so that may be a good option for you.

11/ 3/09 6:57pm

I would get checked for Gluten Intollerance and a full allergy panel before you start experimenting.  If you eliminate Wheat from you diet before testing then it will not be accurate.  If you are Gluten Intollerant then you cannot eat spelt or barley.  Check on line to see the gluten intollerance diet.

 

I am Gluten Intollerant and intollerant to soy and eggs.  Eliminating these from my diet was hard but worth it.  When I do eat these I do get a flare up.  Allergies create an immune responce, so for me it made sence to follow this diet with RA.  I also have other auto immune diseases and have been told that you usually don't have one. Lucky us.

 

I think that it is important to be your own advocate and also find a practicioner that listens to you and looks beyond the norm.

 

Take care and be well

 

Julie

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By Ruth— Last Modified: 12/19/10, First Published: 10/22/09