In a recent study led by Kari Johansson at Karolinska Institutet, scientists explored an intriguing possibility: could the Mediterranean diet, known for its myriad health benefits, also play a role in lowering the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, a painful and debilitating autoimmune and inflammatory disease?
Rheumatoid arthritis primarily attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
The Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its plant-based focus, includes ample fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, moderate amounts of fish and white meat, and a low intake of red meat and sugar.
This diet has already been linked to reduced risks of heart disease, cancer, and even early death in numerous studies, thanks to its believed anti-inflammatory properties.
Interestingly, before this research, only one study had delved into the connection between this diet and rheumatoid arthritis, finding no significant association. However, Johansson and the team revisited this question with a fresh perspective.
They scrutinized the eating habits of 1,721 rheumatoid arthritis patients alongside 3,667 healthy individuals. Participants’ adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using a 124-item food questionnaire, which helped calculate a diet score ranging from 0 to 9.
The findings were revealing. Approximately 24% of arthritis patients and 28% of healthy participants showed high adherence to the Mediterranean diet, defined as a score between 6 and 9. Notably, those with high adherence had a 21% lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis compared to those with low adherence (score between 0 and 2).
However, the diet’s protective effect was pronounced primarily in men and in individuals with a positive rheumatoid factor – an indicator of higher levels of rheumatoid factor in the blood, often linked to autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Conversely, this effect was not significant in women or in individuals with a negative rheumatoid factor, typically associated with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis.
The researchers speculate that the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet could stem from its rich array of bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants, monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols, and fiber.
While these findings open new doors in understanding how diet can influence the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, further research is essential to unravel the underlying mechanisms, especially regarding why the diet’s benefits are more pronounced in certain groups.
Overall, this study presents the Mediterranean diet as a potential tool for reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in men and individuals with a positive rheumatoid factor. Given the diet’s balanced and nutrient-rich profile, it stands as a compelling choice for those aiming to lower their risk of rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic diseases.
Published in Arthritis Research & Therapy, Johansson et al.’s research adds to the growing evidence of the Mediterranean diet’s role in promoting health and wellness, making it an attractive dietary option for those seeking to support their overall well-being.
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