Patient handout · Rheumatology
Lifestyle & Diet for Rheumatic Disease
What it is
Daily habits can affect how you feel with arthritis or an autoimmune disease. Regular exercise, good sleep, a healthy diet and not smoking may help. These steps work alongside your medicines.
Who it may help
- Anyone living with arthritis or an autoimmune disease
What to expect
- Getting started: Your rheumatologist explains how this fits your care plan.
- What you do: Aim for gentle activity most days. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, beans and fish. Keep regular sleep hours.
- Follow-up: We check your progress at each visit and adjust your plan.
Self-care tips
- Change one habit at a time.
- Ask before starting supplements; some affect your medicines.
- Do not smoke. Ask us for help quitting.
- Keep regular sleep hours.
When to call us
- Pain or swelling that is much worse after activity
- A flare that does not settle
- New symptoms that worry you
Call 911 for chest pain, trouble breathing, or signs of a stroke.
This handout is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.