There is beneficial effect in using a Mediterranean diet and Dong diet for a reduction in the number of tender joints, stiffness, and pain.Vitamins
Adequate Vitamin concentrations may provide an important defence against the increased oxidant stress in patients with RA. Here we look at the effects of vitamins E, C and B on the management of RA. In general vitamin E deficiency enhances components of the inflammatory response and suppresses components of the immune response. Molecular studies have demonstrated that the formation of the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 is inhibited 95% by aspirin when combined with vitamin E compared to control. This suggests that vitamin E supplementation reduces the need for high dosage of aspirin needed by patients with RA to relieve joint symptoms. This can offer double benefits because lowering the dose of aspirin can also reduce the gastric irritation side effect for patients. Even though there is no evidence of only taking vitamin E supplementation alone, I believe patients with RA should be encouraged to increase their consumption of vitamin E rich cereals, fruit, and vegetables. Vitamin C is necessary for the growth and development of all body tissues and plays an important role in antioxidant defences. In animal studies biochemical markers of antioxidant defence mechanisms were increased with vitamin C supplementation and infiltration of inflammatory cells into synovial fluid were decreased. From these studies I can conclude that vitamin C supplementation may be more effective for the pain associated with RA however long-term use might aggravate onset of osteoarthritis.
: 1098  Synovitis can lead to tethering of tissue with loss of movement and erosion of the joint surface causing deformity and loss of function. The fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), highly specialized mesenchymal cells found in the synovial membrane, have an active and prominent role in these pathogenic processes of the rheumatic joints.RA typically manifests with signs of inflammation, with the affected joints being swollen, warm, painful and stiff, particularly early in the morning on waking or following prolonged inactivity. Increased stiffness early in the morning is often a prominent feature of the disease and typically lasts for more than an hour. Gentle movements may relieve symptoms in early stages of the disease. These signs help distinguish rheumatoid from non-inflammatory problems of the joints, such as osteoarthritis. In arthritis of non-inflammatory causes, signs of inflammation and early morning stiffness are less prominent. The pain associated with RA is induced at the site of inflammation and classified as nociceptive as opposed to neuropathic. The joints are often affected in a fairly symmetrical fashion, although this is not specific, and the initial presentation may be asymmetrical. : 1098 As the pathology progresses the inflammatory activity leads to tendon tethering and erosion and destruction of the joint surface, which impairs range of movement and leads to deformity. The fingers may develop almost any deformity depending on which joints are most involved.