Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — Written by Jane Chertoff
Updated on September 4, 2018

Overview

Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle practices, including taking herbs and supplements and practicing yoga, may be beneficial for people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). StudiesTrusted Source show that following ayurvedic practices could be helpful in reducing inflammation, easing RA symptoms, and limiting flare-ups. But research is still ongoing.

Results may vary greatly from person to person. Work with your doctor to determine if ayurvedic medicine is safe for your health.

Foods to eat

The ayurvedic diet is typically based on three doshas: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (water and earth). A doshais a primary element, or energy, that exists in the body.

The recommended diet for those living with RA is similar to those of the ayurvedic condition amavata. Amavata refers to a disease of the joints, and causes similar symptoms to RA. For amavata, ayurveda recommends a diet that pacifies, or balances out, Vata.

Examples of foods to eat on this diet include:

- grains: easy to digest grains like cooked oats, rice, and cream of wheat

- legumes: lentils, dal, mung beans, miso, and tofu

- lukewarm water, or water boiled with ginger root, to help with digestion and remove toxins

- green, leafy vegetables

- berries

- spices: ginger, turmeric, and garlic, which are anti-inflammatory and aid with digestion

- buttermilk

- wild animal meat

- aged wine in moderate amounts

A sample daily diet may look like the following:

Overall diet tips

In general, foods like fruits and vegetables should be stewed or cooked before you eat them. Look for sweet fruits and vegetables like:

- squash

- sweet potatoes

- cooked or soaked raisins

- cooked apples

Limit harder-to-digest fruits and vegetables like raw apples, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.

Spices are an important part of ayurveda, but none of your dishes should be fiery hot. Limit spices like cayenne pepper and chili powder, which pack a punch of heat. Replace them with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric.

Also, skip cold water in favor of room temperature water, and venture into nut milks, like almond. For an extra treat, try it warm with a spoonful of honey.

Exercise

Recommended ayurvedic exercises usually include gentle movements like yoga, tai chi, swimming, and walking. Deep breathing and daily meditation are also recommended. Yoga may be especially beneficial for RA. One study found that yoga for arthritis improved:

- physical pain

- overall health

- energy

- mental health (it may help lower depression)

If you live with RA, it’s important to discuss with your doctor whether it’s safe to exercise before starting a new routine. They can determine how often you should exercise based on your symptoms and talk with you about modifying exercise, such as yoga poses.