Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been linked to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Previous studies have found that cigarette smoking and a diet low in vitamin C-rich fruits play roles in the development of rheumatoid arthritis, but a new study points to another nutritional factor. A study published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatism, found that consuming high levels of red meat (defined as two or more ounces every day) more than doubled the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, compared to individuals who ate less than one ounce of red meat each day. The authors point out that lifestyle factors may only influence the development of RA in people who are already genetically predisposed to the disease. Action Sparked Even if you’re not genetically predisposed to developing rheumatoid arthritis, there are many other potential dangers in over-indulging in red meat. It's higher in saturated fat and cholesterol (nutrients that contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol) than other protein sources. Aim for variety when filling your protein requirements, choosing foods like beans, nuts, legumes, fish, and poultry. |
Like what you read? Get your free account today!
Got a story idea? Give us a shout!
Member Comments
..so she went back to eating meat and can play the piano again. My husband is diabetic, and his blood sugars do so much better when he has some steak 3 times a week, makes a noticable difference, in fact. Doesn't matter if the beef danced in the grass or in the pen, either. Report
If you or your family history have chronic pain and/or fatigue, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, depression, weight gain, and many more, I highly recommend the book by Mark Starr, MD: Hypothyroidism Type 2, The Epidemic. He writes like a doctor, very scholarly, in a clinical fashion; when he uses words like "Epidemic" he is specifically referring to the clinical definition of the word, epidemic. Wow I thought it was just another punk / blast / shock marketing title, but no. Report