Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause unpleasant symptoms such as decreased range of motion, joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. The symptoms of RA can make it difficult to get around and complete daily activities and enjoyable hobbies. However, in addition to doctor-prescribed medications and therapies, certain dietary changes can actually help symptoms improve or worsen. Here are a few foods to avoid with RA:

1. Refined sugar
Sugary foods are among the worst that you can eat if you have rheumatoid arthritis. Cookies, white bread, cake and brownies are some of the foods that you will need to avoid. You should also avoid sugary beverages, such as fruit juice and sodas. Advanced glycation end products are toxins that are created when foods are heated. Sugary foods increase the amount of AGEs that are in your body. If you have too many AGEs, then you are more likely to develop inflammation.

2. Fried foods
It is important for you to limit the amount of fried food that you eat with RA. You should opt to eat baked, broiled or grilled food instead of fried food. A 2009 study that was done by Mount Sinai School of Medicine showed that people who limited their intake of fried food were able to reduce the amount of inflammation in their body.

3. Alcohol
You are probably well aware of the fact that alcohol can increase the risk of a number of health problems. It can also trigger or worsen rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Even if you only drink small amounts of alcohol, it can still trigger your symptoms. That is why it is best for you to avoid it completely.

4. Dairy products
Dairy products have a protein that may trigger rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The protein can irritate the lining around your joints. Dairy milk, ice cream, yogurt and cheese are examples of some of the dairy products that you will need to limit your intake of. Keep in mind that there are some non-dairy milk options. You can also get protein from nut butters, lentils, quinoa and spinach. Not only do these foods allow you to get protein without dairy, but they may also alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

5. Salt and preservatives
Salt can cause inflammation around your joints. You may notice an improvement in your joints even if you reduce your intake by a modest amount. You can use herbs and spices to season your food. You should also eat more fresh food instead of processed food. Furthermore, you should avoid eating packaged meals. Those meals may make your life more convenient because all you have to do is put them in the microwave. However, they are filled with salt.

Preservatives are put in your food in order to help them last longer. Most of the food that is on the shelves have preservatives in them. Read the food labels in order to avoid processed food.