9 Dos and Don’ts to Ease Psoriatic Arthritis Inflammation

Obesity is a major problem among people with psoriatic arthritis, as is the hardening of arteries, also known as atherosclerosis — and both are related to your diet. “Hydrogenated fats are terrible for your arteries, which is especially bad as your arteries transfer medication to your joints and the rest of the body,” Smith says.

Saturated fat, found in meat, butter, and cheese, and trans fat, found in baked goods, fried foods, and shortening, can increase inflammation and raise your levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Limit saturated and trans fat in your diet and instead choose healthy fats, like omega-3 fatty acids — which include avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish. Focus on an overall healthy diet by choosing lean proteins, whole grains, and a rainbow of fruits and veggies, the Arthritis Foundation suggests.