THE ESSENTIAL
- Eating fatty fish, fruit, whole grains and vitamin D appears to reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while drinking tea or coffee may increase it slightly.
- Moderate alcohol consumption, up to two units per week (a glass of wine), would have a protective effect, but this benefit disappears beyond 7.5 units.
- Researchers emphasize the importance of a personalized diet for autoimmune diseases. These results pave the way for targeted nutritional advice to prevent this debilitating disease.
How much can our eating habits protect our joints? According to a new study published in the journal Nutrientscertain foods, such as fatty fish and whole grains, may reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory and autoimmune joint disease, while others, such as tea, may increase it.
Crucial food choices
This meta-analysis, carried out by researchers from the University of Leeds (United Kingdom), compiled the results of 30 studies carried out over twenty years and involving a total of nearly 10,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). . Scientists examined the impact of 32 food groups, drinks and nutrients on the development of this autoimmune disease, which affects more than 300,000 people in France and which manifests itself with symptoms including joint pain, stiffness and swelling. The objective, to see if dietary factors contribute to risk “by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system”we can read in a press release.
The results suggest that certain foods play a protective role against RA. This is the case with fatty fish (rich in omega-3, they reduce inflammation), whole grains (a valuable source of fiber and antioxidants) and even fruits (they are anti-inflammatory). Vitamin D, found in egg yolks and some dairy products, may also help. Conversely, it appears that daily consumption of black tea could slightly increase the risk (by 4% per additional cup), as does coffee to a lesser extent.
Better prevent rheumatoid arthritis
Researchers have also studied the controversial role of alcohol. Consuming it in moderation – around 2 units per week, or a glass of wine and a pint of beer – seems to reduce the risk of RA, of course, but this protective effect quickly disappears above 7.5 units per week. week. “Excess reverses profits”summarize the scientists.
The study highlights the importance of a personalized dietary approach: “A ‘standard’ diet is not necessarily suitable for everyone, especially for autoimmune diseases.” The authors call for continued research, particularly on the influence of different types of tea or the mechanisms by which certain foods affect inflammation and immunity.
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