Once the essentials of psoriatic arthritis are understood, it is essential to know what food items can trigger the condition. There is no cure for it yet and the condition is chronic, meaning medication may have to be taken lifelong with possible short term and long-term side effects. This is why it becomes all the more important to ensure better management of the condition with the help of dietary methods. If you show improvement in your condition, there is scope for doctors to reduce the dosage of medication. The simple basic thumb rule when you prepare meal plans for a patient with psoriatic arthritis is this – avoid inflammatory food and include anti-inflammatory food. The following are natural foods are ideal for a psoriatic arthritic diet as they will not trigger any inflammation.

• Low-calorie foods

Obesity is one of the greatest risks of psoriatic arthritis. People who are obese can face resistance to medication, lower response to treatment and they are at risk for comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Hence, all food items that are high in calories and sugar have to be avoided. They should gradually shift to low-calorie food items like oats, green tea, berries, beetroots, carrots, salmon, cucumber, chickpea, yogurt, walnuts, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables.

• Omega-3 rich foods

Omega-3 fatty acids are not only anti-inflammatory but are full of antioxidants that help build immunity. Our body converts fats into chemicals, which reduces inflammation. Natural foods in the form of fatty fish like salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, and anchovies are best suited for people with psoriatic arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found abundantly in chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, flax seeds, edamame, soybean oil.

• Vegetables and fruits

Increase the number of cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, Brussel sprouts, watercress, and radishes as they all contain anti-inflammatory properties. Squash, carrots, kale, and microgreens should be included every day. Bell peppers and mushrooms contain selenium and anti-inflammatory properties. Make it a point to add these vegetables in turns week after week.

Rainbow-colored fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and vitamins that are necessary to prevent the condition. They also help in recovery and healing. Additionally, they reduce blood pressure and the risk of a heart attack. Include apples, avocadoes, and grapes, pineapples, mangoes, berries, and figs in your menu – eat as is or make it a part of a salad, salsa, or sugar-free juice. It is essential to eat a minimum of five servings of fruits and veggies every day.

• Whole grains

Avoid gluten-based grains, which trigger inflammation. You should look at alternate whole grains that can decrease inflammation. These grains are also high on fiber and help to maintain a healthy metabolism. Some of the whole grains that are ideal for psoriatic arthritis are barley, oats, brown rice, wild rice, quinoa, and bulgur. These also help in maintaining normal blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

• Vitamin D

Vitamin D can help manage pain that is associated with psoriatic arthritis, making foods rich in it a must-have for your diet. Eggs, mushrooms, and food fortified with Vitamin D are recommended. Do not take Vitamin D supplements unless approved by a doctor.

• Vegetable oils

As compared to animal protein and fat, vegetable oils contain mono-saturated fats and antioxidants. Use olive oil as much as possible to cook and for marinades. You can also consider oils like sesame oil, coconut oil, and canola oils.

There are other ingredients like turmeric, garlic, and chocolate, which have anti-inflammatory properties. You should include them in your diet regularly.

Always talk to a nutritionist before designing menu plans that are tweaked to suit your needs and health. If you are allergic to nuts or any vegetables that are normally recommended for psoriatic arthritis, exclude them from your shopping list.