Effective Ways to Lose Weight to Stay on Top of Rheumatoid Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Foundation, an estimated 1.5 million adult Americans have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Interestingly, two-thirds of them suffer from obesity as well. In addition to the usual health hazards of obesity, the extra weight puts more pressure on the joints that are already painful. Obesity also increases the risks of rheumatoid arthritis co-morbidities like heart disease and osteoporosis. It is why you must reduce your weight and maintain it at an optimum level if you are suffering from RA. Some handy weight management tips:

Follow a Weight Loss Diet

A diet configured to promote health and weight loss is ideal if you suffer from RA. According to dieticians, you will do well to follow the Mediterranean Diet, which is based mostly on fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats. The diet is low in calories but high in fiber which helps you to avoid overeating while keeping your intestinal system clean. Avoiding fried and processed foods to reduce the intake of excessive salt, sugar, chemicals, fats, etc., can be a good idea for losing weight. Paying attention to the packaged food labels and adopting healthy substitutes for sugar and fats is good practice. Exercise portion control and watch the serving sizes because it is too easy to overeat. Using a smaller plate and resisting the urge for a second helping can benefit you. Avoid alcohol, especially beer, as it is high in carbs but if you must drink, do so in moderation, says QC Kinetix (Naples) consultant. Follow the map

Exercise Regularly

It may not be easy to have the motivation to exercise when your joints are inflamed and painful, but once you start, you will feel the joint pain subsiding. However, you must choose low-impact exercises to prevent further damage to your joints. These include walking, water aerobics, Pilates, and riding a stationary bike. Swimming and water exercises can be particularly helpful when done in a heated pool because the warm water can soothe the joints and help alleviate the pain and stiffness typical of arthritis. You can also consider resistance exercises, lightweight bands, dumbbells, medicine balls, etc., to strengthen your muscles, improve the stability of your joints reduce inflammation. 

Review Your Medications

Some medications prescribed by your doctor, like steroid prednisone for RA may lead to weight gain due to increased appetite and fluid retention. If you are struggling to meet your weight reduction goals, you should consult your doctor, who may be able to adjust the medications or prescribe substitutes that may make weight management easier.

Conclusion 

According to experts, losing weight and maintaining it at an optimal level is a big and never-ending battle. However, you can get on top by eating your food slowly and focusing on aspects like the taste, flavor, texture, smell, etc., more than the quantity. Increasing the spice content can make the food more flavorful and help to burn more calories. Keeping a food journal, the old-fashioned way, or using a smartphone app can help to lose excess weight by being more accountable for your diet. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep also helps you to maintain optimal body weight.