Rheumatoid arthritis and Mediterranean diet

A study published in the "Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases" 2003, vol 62, pages: 208-214 by Skoldstam and colleagues investigated whether diet can suppress the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). About 50 patients took part in this study with well controlled although active RA of at least 2 years duration, receiving stable pharmacological treatment. They were randomly divided into two groups to receive typical Swedish meals or Mediterranean meals (lunch and dinner) for 12 weeks at the outpatient clinic's canteen. The group receiving the Mediterranean meals had a greater reduction in inflammation, increased physical function and improved quality of life.

Last Updated: April 2003