Accepting New Patients - We take Medicare, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC and many more
Accepting New Patients - We take Medicare, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC and many more
At St. Pete Arthritis & Rheumatology, our integrative approach addresses the root causes of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis while providing effective symptom relief. By combining cutting-edge conventional therapies, such as advanced medications and infusions, with personalized strategies like anti-inflammatory diets, intermittent fasting, stress management, and testing for triggers like insulin resistance and gut imbalances, we aim to reduce joint pain, prevent flare-ups, and promote long lasting wellness. Our tailored plans empower patients to manage symptoms and achieve long-term health by targeting underlying causes.
Embrace an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Choose whole, nutrient-rich foods to combat inflammation. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, proteins (like wild-caught fish), healthy fats (such as olive oil, avocados, nuts), and omega-3 sources (e.g., salmon, walnuts). Steer clear of ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats. Some find relief with specific diets like the Mediterranean, Carnivore, Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), Wahls Protocol, Plant Paradox, Paleo, 4R Protocol, or Vegetarian as they all eliminate trigger foods (e.g., gluten, sugar, dairy, nightshades), they limit size portion, and impose time restricted eating.
Support Gut Health
The gut-immune link is vital for managing autoimmune conditions. Include prebiotic and probiotic foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, bananas, garlic) to foster a healthy microbiome. Avoid gut-disrupting foods like artificial sweeteners and excessive alcohol. Consult a healthcare provider to test for food sensitivities or leaky gut.
Chronic stress can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms by increasing inflammation. Practice stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation. Even 10-15 minutes daily can make a difference. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or journaling may also help.
Adequate sleep is critical for managing inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout, as it helps regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. During sleep, the body repairs tissues, balances cytokines (proteins that modulate inflammation), and lowers stress hormones like cortisol, which can exacerbate inflammation when elevated. Poor sleep disrupts these processes, increasing inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, which worsens joint pain, swelling, and fatigue in these conditions.
Physical activity is crucial for people with rheumatic diseases as it helps reduce joint stiffness, improve mobility, and decrease inflammation, while also boosting mental health and overall well-being.
Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, yoga, and tai chi are ideal, as they minimize joint stress while enhancing flexibility and strength. Cycling and gentle stretching can also support joint function and reduce pain. Aim for 20-30 minutes most days, but avoid overexertion, which can trigger flares.
If you don't have the time for a formal exercise program, you can still find ways to move throughout your day. Try these tips:
Environmental triggers of autoimmune diseases in genetically susceptible individuals include:
Strong social connections benefit arthritis patients by reducing stress, improving mental health, and encouraging physical activity, which help manage symptoms. Support from friends, family, or groups lowers stress hormones like cortisol, reducing inflammation and pain, while social activities promote movement, enhancing joint mobility and reducing stiffness.
Consciously build your network of friends, family, and community. Engage in spiritual activity, volunteer, meditate, do yoga, join to a club, keep a journal of your daily emotions.
People who are overweight or obese, or who have extra weight in the abdominal area have increased risk for more inflammation. Fat cells located in the belly area produce and secrete compounds that can contribute to inflammation. Fortunately, even modest weight loss of 10% of body weight can help to reduce inflammation.
Call 727-290-1444 to schedule in-office appointment with our rheumatologist. Or click REQUEST TELEHEALTH for telehealth self-pay appointments.
The 2023 study published in Autoimmunity Reviews (PMID: 37572827), titled "Intermittent fasting: A promising dietary intervention for autoimmune diseases," explores the potential benefits of intermittent fasting (IF) for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It suggests that IF, which involves alternating periods of fasting and eating, may reduce inflammation, modulate immune responses, enhance gut microbiota health, and promote cellular repair through autophagy (the body's process of clearing damaged cells). These mechanisms could help alleviate symptoms of autoimmune diseases. However, the study emphasizes that clinical research on IF's effects on these conditions is limited, and further studies are needed to establish its safety and effectiveness.
Complementary therapies can help rheumatology patients manage pain, inflammation, and stress alongside medical treatments. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting.
710 94th Avenue North STE 307, St. Petersburg, Florida 33702
Phone: 727-290-1444; Fax: 727-290-1449
Monday - Thursday: 9 AM–4 PM
Fridays 9am-12pm
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St. Pete Arthritis & Rheumatology
710 94th Ave N Ste 306 and 307, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
P: 727-290-1444 F:727-290-1449