2 Foods That May Worsen Rheumatoid and Inflammatory Arthritis

If you're living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or any inflammatory autoimmune condition, you already know how frustrating joint pain, swelling, and fatigue can be. At Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health in Miami, we specialize in natural, drug-free therapies, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and nutritional support, to help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.

A big part of managing autoimmune arthritis comes down to what you eat and what you avoid. Two of the most common dietary triggers we see in our clinic are nightshade vegetables and refined sugar.

1. Nightshade Vegetables

Nightshades are a group of vegetables that include:

• Tomatoes

• Eggplant

• Peppers (bell, chili, cayenne, paprika)

• White potatoes

While these foods are nutritious for many, people with rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions often report increased joint pain, stiffness, or flare-ups after eating them. That’s because nightshades contain alkaloids, natural compounds that may increase inflammation or interfere with nerve signaling in sensitive individuals.

What You Can Do:

Try removing nightshades from your diet for 2–3 weeks and track your symptoms. Many of our patients notice a decrease in pain and swelling when they avoid these vegetables, even temporarily.

2. Refined Sugar

Sugar is a well-known contributor to systemic inflammation. It spikes insulin levels and promotes the production of cytokines (pro-inflammatory chemicals that can aggravate autoimmune activity).

You’ll find refined sugar in:

• Soft drinks and fruit juices

• Candy and pastries

• Flavored yogurts and cereals

• Sauces, dressings, and packaged foods

  
  

High sugar intake is also linked to gut imbalance, which plays a major role in autoimmune conditions.

What You Can Do:

Cut back or eliminate added sugars from your diet. Read labels carefully, sugar can hide under names like sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, and dextrose.

Natural Help for Inflammatory Arthritis in Miami

At Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health, we combine effective acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine with simple lifestyle changes to help reduce inflammation and manage autoimmune conditions naturally. Whether you're newly diagnosed or seeking alternatives to medication, we’re here to support your healing journey.

Let’s Get You Feeling Better—Naturally

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📱Text us at (786) 309-1456

Request an appointment online at www.acureallyworks.com