Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) refers to a condition that can cause pain in your upper back, neck, shoulders, and possibly other body parts. The condition is known to occur largely in those aged above 50, and its effects can last for up to five years. Making a few dietary changes can help in controlling the inflammation associated with PMR. Here are some things patients with PMR can include and exclude from their diet.

The best diet for polymyalgia rheumatica
No single diet has been shown to significantly improve or worsen PMR for most people since each person has a unique reaction to food. Yet, keeping track of one’s daily meals can be helpful in managing their diet. A well-balanced meal plan includes foods from all major categories. The foods listed below are a good addition to a diet for a polymyalgia rheumatica patient.

Healthy fats
The human body requires fat for better functioning. But not all fats are safe. It’s important to concentrate on eating healthy fats when including fat sources in one’s diet. Omega-3 is one type of good fat that may reduce inflammation, especially when combined with a well-balanced diet.

Dieticians suggest that fish oil is considered a rich source of Omega-3. Those with rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma can also benefit from fish oil’s anti-inflammatory properties. Foods high in Omega-3 include eggs, salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed and its oil. Other anti-inflammatory foods that can be included in a PMR patient’s diet are tomatoes, olive oil, berries, spinach, kale, collards, and oranges.

Foods rich in Vitamin D and calcium
A person may face high risk of developing osteoporosis due to the usage of certain prescriptions for PMR. To tackle this, one can eat foods that are rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Your bones can be strengthened by calcium, and Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption. Milk, yogurt, and cheese are dairy items that are good sources of calcium, but it can also be acquired from other foods like sardines, broccoli, and spinach. One can get Vitamin D by direct exposure to the sun. Including these foods in one’s diet is another way of improving Vitamin D intake: fortified bread, fortified dairy products, salmon, tuna, beef liver, egg yolk.

Water
It’s crucial to maintain hydration to reduce inflammation. Adults should consume two to three liters of liquids daily. Always have a refillable water bottle with you to stay hydrated. It will enable you to monitor your drinking habits. If you are tired of drinking plain water, add some flavor to it by mixing it with some lemon, lime, or orange juice.

Coffee
Coffee may have anti-inflammatory benefits for some people. These effects differ from person to person. One should assess if their body reacts negatively after having a cup of coffee. If the symptoms worsen after consuming coffee, one should avoid it. Try having herbal tea instead. One should be attentive to what they eat throughout the day. Being aware about food choices can help an individual understand their condition better and manage any side effects.

Keto diet for polymyalgia
A person is said to be on a keto diet when they eat a low amount of carbs and a high amount of fats. Some of its benefits can include lowered risk for certain diseases. The effectiveness of the keto diet for polymyalgia rheumatica is being assessed by scientists. Very few studies indicate that it has a positive effect. PMR patients are advised to opt for doctor-recommended prescriptions and lifestyle changes to manage their symptoms. Before starting any type of diet or making drastic changes in one’s meals, one should consult their physician.

Foods to avoid to keep a check on PMR
Keeping track of foods that worsen PMR symptoms is equally important. Foods like French fries, white bread or white rice, red meat, margarine, foods with added sugar, should be excluded from one’s diet, as they can worsen the symptoms. These foods are associated with high levels of inflammation.

I mportance of exercise in controlling PMR
It’s crucial to make time for physical activity if a person has PMR. While they can avoid physically demanding activities, modest exercising can help with symptoms and general well-being. Some workouts can also help in avoiding adverse side effects.

A little exercise, such as a daily stroll, bike ride, or swim, will help keep the body in motion. Aerobic activity is another way to get some exercise. It supports heart health because it helps improve bone density. Before beginning any new exercise regimens, don’t forget to consult your physician. Your doctor can suggest safe workouts for you.

An immune system supported by a healthy diet for polymyalgia and regular exercise can help with symptoms and enhance your general health. Most PMR patients experience upper body discomfort upon awakening and occasional hip pain. Over time, the pain can come and go. Many symptoms can be reduced with a balanced anti-inflammatory diet and some exercise along with prescription treatments.