Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis diet

Introduction to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is a common type of the arthritis that occurs in children and it is treated usually with a combination of medicine and physical therapy.

However, people must know that there are ways to treat the condition that relate to eating as well.

JRA is a condition that affects the immune system and it result in the inflammation of joints, which in effect, causes pain.

Not only will the child experience pain, but there will also be other symptoms that accompany the JRA, including fever, enlarged lymph nodes and rashes.

The linings of the joints are usually inflamed. These linings produce fluid that gives nutrients to the joint cartilage and also provides cushioning for the joints.

When this linings swells because too much fluid has accumulated, it releases white blood cells, which is the primary cause of the JRA.

One of the ways to relieve the problem and not aggravate it any further is to change your diet.

There are some foods that will complement the JRA medical treatments and help from making the pain even worse. Diet

It is important to first know which foods to avoid.

There are certain foods that will aggravate the condition further. Some of these include coffee tomatoes, beef, oats, rye, milk, oranges, wheat, pork and corn.

However, there are foods that are recommended for children suffering JRA.

Fish is good because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acid, which changes the cytokine metabolism of the body, which helps to get rid of the joint inflammation.

Fruits and vegetables should be eaten regularly, because these foods are generally rich in antioxidants, which are needed for children with JRA.

Vitamin C is very important for getting rid of free radicals, and it will also decrease the inflammation and pain.

Vitamin C is also important for forming collagen, which is very important for the bones, joints and cartilage.

Some fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C that are good for children who suffer from JRA are strawberries, spinach, raspberries, blueberries, cabbage, red pepper, cauliflower and broccoli.

There are other vitamins that should be consumed regularly as well. Vitamin D and E are also essential. Vitamin D will strengthen the bones and give them essential nutrients.

Vitamin E rich foods include whole wheat flour, safflower, walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts. Vitamin E will help to ease the inflammation as well and decrease the amount of pain and irritation that the child is experiencing.