5 Ways to Manage Weight Gain with Psoriatic Arthritis

Research has shown that people who are overweight or obese have a greater likelihood of developing Psoriatic Arthritis. Even without a chronic illness, though, managing your weight can be difficult, and changes in weight can have an impact on your overall health.

Managing your weight isn’t easy, especially when you have to contend with psoriatic arthritis at the same time. Your joints are swollen and in pain — why would you want to exercise? It might be understandable if you wouldn’t want to go out at all.

However, research has proven (and common sense agrees) that a lack of activity contributes to weight gain. Being overweight (and continuing to gain weight) can also affect your psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Specifically, being overweight contributes to greater inflammation in your joints, which causes greater pain and disability over time. Additionally, being overweight can cause some psoriatic arthritis medications to become less effective.

Our Arthritis, Rheumatic & Bone Disease Associates physicians believe that maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle are the fundamental building blocks of long-term wellness — and coincidentally, this is also the best method for managing weight.

That said, while we all have our own reasons for weight fluctuation, here are a handful of tips you can use to manage your weight when handling psoriatic arthritis.

1. Identify Your Triggers

Everyone has different triggers. This is especially true for people suffering from autoimmune diseases like Psoriatic Arthritis (often referred to as PsA). Figuring out what they are can reduce those rapid increases in pain and inflammation (called “flares” or “flare-ups”) and, in turn, decrease the amount of overall inflammation in your body. By avoiding these triggers, you can reduce excess fluid and inflammation that contribute to weight gain.

2. Diet, Diet, & Diet

Whether you have arthritis or not, your diet is the most significant factor when it comes to managing your weight. Eating healthy may prove more difficult when you aren’t feeling well, but unfortunately those comfort foods will not help stave off joint pain. When possible, try to stay away from both fried and highly processed foods. Remember, small steps are the key to success — instead of a cookie, try some fruit. Adding vegetables to each meal is also important for long-term success. Finally, try drinking a glass of water at least 10 minutes before eating; you may find that you actually eat less.

3. Keep It Moving

Along with a healthy diet, exercise is one of the best ways to manage your weight. Even simply taking a short walk around the block or choosing the stairs instead of the elevator can go a long way while also benefiting your joints. Don’t overdo it, of course — know your limits; more on that below.

4. Low-Impact Exercises

You don’t have to run a marathon or bench press 300 lbs. There are plenty of low-impact exercises that can benefit you. Besides walking, try taking a yoga class or going for a swim. Talk to your Rheumatologist about different exercises or physical therapy that might benefit your particular symptoms.

5. Learn About Your Medications

Some medications can cause weight gain and water retention, in spite of your best efforts. Consult with your doctor about your treatments and find out how they may impact your weight.

To learn more about treating psoriatic arthritis, contact our team at Arthritis, Rheumatic, & Bone Disease Associates. Find out which of our Central and South Jersey locations is closest to you!