Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammation of the tissues that results in pain in all the joints which later affects the entire skeletal system. It is caused due to poor dietary habits, lack of exercise and genetic factors. To reduce the inflammation, few foods such as capsaicin in chili peppers, cocoa, and foods rich in vitamin D are included in the diet, as they are considered as anti-inflammatory foods. A little alteration in the food pattern may prove to be positive to increase a person’s energy level, reduce the pain, and maintain weight.

Here’s a list of healthy foods and quick snacks that are suitable for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis:

1. A healthy snack between meals
Handy snacks in between meals that have either a high salt content or a high sugar content can be exchanged with anti-inflammatory foods for rheumatoid arthritis, which is a mixture of seeds and nuts.

• You may mix almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, pine nuts, pistachios and keep it as a snack.
• You can also make an easy dessert with a few pieces of cocoa chocolate that is rich in flavanols and can fight inflammation.
• You can try an easy snack with cereals rich in vitamin D, eggs, mushrooms, bread and low-fat milk that may reduce inflammation and boost energy.
• Roasted chickpeas can be an excellent anti-inflammatory food for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Drain the chickpeas, roast, and add them with spices like ginger and turmeric to make a healthy and tasty snack with anti-inflammatory compounds.

2. Snacks for weight loss
Since you are suffering from a painful joint disease, you cannot afford to increase weight, no matter what the reason is. To maintain your weight, firstly, you need to add foods that are rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables that initiate losing weight without taking in extra calories.
Low-fat dairy and foods rich in protein reduce inflammation. These include herring, salmon, tuna, etc, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. You may add olive oil while making these snacks.

3. Include healthy greens
Kale, which is high in polyphenol, is a perfect treat and snack for people suffering from arthritis. Since fried food increases inflammation, as it contains omega-6 fatty acids, one needs to create a new cooking technique that needs little oil. You can try making healthy snacks for rheumatoid arthritis with kale by brushing oil, followed by baking, and serving crispy healthy chips.

4. Green tea
Also, include green tea as a healthy drink between meals. It fights inflammation and reduces pain.

5. Foods to avoid
Intake of many foods that are rich in fat and calories like grilled or fried meats, foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids, excessive sugary foods and refined carbohydrates, preservatives, antioxidants and alcohol increases inflammation. It may worsen the disease; hence, you need to avoid them in your meals.