In the absence of specific advice, what do patients eat and avoid? Results from a community based diet study in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with a focus on potassium.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a painful disabling difficult to treat disease. Clinicians and guidelines invariably focus on drugs. Diet is important but lacks robust data. We carried out a comprehensive analytical study in Indian (Asian) patients.

METHODS

141 consenting symptomatic chronic RA patients [mean age 46 years) center and 165 unrelated healthy control subjects (mean age 36 years) completed a a-priori validated food frequency questionnaire in a cross-sectional non-random design study under the supervision of a nutritionist. All patients were under standard rheumatology care. A 3 day retrospective recall record captured dietary data for all subjects. National Indian guidelines were adopted for diet analytics. Standard statistical analysis was carried out; significant p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Daily diet was found to be significantly deficient in calories and consumption of proteins, calcium and potassium when compared to healthy subjects. It was also inadequate for several nutrients when compacted to recommended daily allowance. The proportion of carbohydrates (65%), proteins (15%) and fat (25%) in daily diet was consistent with Indian standards (healthy). Women patients reported higher deficiency. 44% patients consumed vegetarian diet and showed lesser pain and better function compared to non-vegetarians (not significant). 44% patients reported dietary restriction; higher swollen joint counts in patients following any dietary restriction (p = 0.01) or Ayurveda (ancient Indian medicinal system) advise (p = 0.01) or consuming night shade vegetables (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary inadequacy and in particular for protein and potassium was identified in patients of RA. Any form of dietary restriction did not seem to improve RA. Specific dietary needs of RA patients and in particular impact of potassium deficiency needs further research.