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Ankylosing Spondylitis: can nutrition help me?

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Nowadays, autoimmune diseases are a very common phenomenon, largely due to our fast-paced and stressful lifestyles. One such condition is Ankylosing Spondylitis. By improving our diet and physical condition, we can enhance our quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore which dietary habits can support the body in managing Ankylosing Spondylitis.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic condition of the spine, classified as an autoimmune disease, specifically under rheumatic diseases. It primarily affects the anterior longitudinal ligaments of the spine, the joints, and the sacroiliac joints (at the back of the pelvis). Less commonly, it can affect joints in the upper and lower limbs, as well as parenchymal organs such as the spleen, kidneys, and intestines.

Ankylosing Spondylitis typically appears between the ages of 15 and 30 and progresses over time. It consists of two phases: remission and flare-ups, and pain and/or stiffness can be present between these phases. Often, the symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis are confused with those of other neurological or rheumatic conditions, which can delay diagnosis.

What are the characteristics of Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Each person may not exhibit all the symptoms, nor do they necessarily worsen over time. Below there are the main characteristics:

  • Pain in the sacral area radiating down into the buttock
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Pain upon waking
  • Pain during sleep
  • Mild fatigue
  • Fever
  • Inflammation of the spine, joints, and other organs
  • Stiffness in the lower back, upper buttocks, neck, or elsewhere along the spine (especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity)

To relieve pain and stiffness, movement, heat, and warm showers are recommended.

How can I strengthen my body through nutrition in Ankylosing Spondylitis?

According to current evidence, there are some dietary recommendations that seem to alleviate symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis when combined with appropriate medication and supplements, when necessary. The Mediterranean diet model is currently the most suitable. The following guidelines appear to be beneficial:

  • Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily
  • Consume dairy products daily
  • Eat at least 4 servings of vegetables (including at least one serving of leafy greens)
  • Eat at least 2 servings of fruit
  • Consume foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish (sardines, mackerel, salmon), flaxseeds, and walnuts
  • Eat whole grain products such as brown rice, whole grain pasta, and whole grain bread
  • Include legumes, unsalted nuts, and eggs
  • Reduce sugar and salt intake
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Minimize intake of processed and fried foods

It is recommended that individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms keep a food diary to track their eating habits. This can help, in collaboration with a Dietitian-Nutritionist and Rheumatologist, to determine whether a specific food may be triggering symptoms.

 

Adopting habits that help improve our quality of life is essential. By following a balanced diet and improving our physical condition, we can strengthen our bodies. Let’s not forget that gentle exercise and proper nutrition are our allies! With the help of your Dietitian-Nutritionist, you can adopt dietary habits tailored for Ankylosing Spondylitis.

 

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