Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a classification of arthritis that involves joint inflammation and is linked with a skin condition that results in scaly, itchy, and reddish patches on the scalp, elbows or knees. Common treatments for PsA include conventional DMARDs, which slow the advancement of psoriatic arthritis and prevent permanent joint damage. Doctors can also provide Apremilast (Otezla) for apremilast therapy to reduce joint inflammation.  Doctors may also recommend prescribed medications such as Adalimumab (Humira), Etanercept (Enbrel), Infliximab (Remicade), Ustekinumab (Stelara), Secukinumab (Cosentyx), Ixekizumab (Taltz), Guselkumab (Tremfya), Tildrakizumab (Ilumya), or Certolizumab (Cimzia). Altering one’s diet can further help with psoriatic arthritis:

To Eat:

1. Fatty fish

Fatty fish, like mackerel, salmon, sardines, and trout, are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower the amount of inflammatory proteins in the body and ease PsA symptoms. Since omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that the human body does not naturally generate on its own, it’s important to consume anti-inflammatory foods, like fatty fish, to enjoy their benefits.

2. Leafy greens

Some examples of leafy greens are spinach, cabbage, kale, romaine lettuce, and collard greens. These vegetables contain high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin K, iron, and antioxidants. Antioxidants strengthen the immune system and help fight inflammation in the body. Leafy greens also contain many carotenoids, which are antioxidants that aid in preventing the early stages of cancer. This can be especially helpful because some studies have linked PsA with a slightly increased risk of developing lymphomas.

3. Nuts and Seeds

Just like leafy greens, nuts and seeds contain high levels of antioxidants. Notably, studies have found that people with arthritis who have lower antioxidant levels in their body were more likely to experience worsened disease activity. Pecans, walnuts and chestnuts have the highest amount of antioxidants among tree nuts, and they are very nutritious in general. Nuts and seeds are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

To Avoid:

4. Red Meat

Red meat, such as lamb, beef, goat, and pork, are very high in saturated fats, which can make inflammation in the body, and PsA symptoms, worse. Note that consuming saturated fats can still be healthy if the consumption is limited to less than 20 grams of saturated fat for someone who consumes 2,000 calories a day. Choosing higher quality red meats may also reduce the risk of exacerbating inflammation. If you choose to eliminate red meat from your diet entirely, try to replace it with poultry, fish, or plant-based proteins, such as beans and legumes.

5. Dairy

Many types of dairy, such as ice cream, cheese, and whole milk, have high levels of saturated fats. Once again, saturated fats can increase inflammation and swelling, worsening PsA symptoms. It has also been found that some people with psoriatic arthritis are deficient in the enzyme that helps the body digest milk products. Milk also often contains hormones and antibiotics that can have a negative effect on the body’s immune response.

6. Processed Foods

Processed foods include any food that has been changed from its natural form by preserving, cooking, or packaging it. Minimally processed foods, like roasted nuts and frozen vegetables, are often healthy. However, heavily altered foods, such as frozen pizza, microwave meals, sweetened breakfast cereals, and energy drinks, often contain trans fats that create more inflammation throughout the body. Replacing these foods with fresh produce and homemade food can help limit the amount of damage that these trans fats have on the body and help alleviate swelling from psoriatic arthritis.