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British Journal of Medical and Health Research

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A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF NUTRITIONAL INADEQUACIES IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Published in May 2026 Issue 5 (Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2026)

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF NUTRITIONAL INADEQUACIES IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS - Issue cover

Abstract

Methodology- A total of 300 subjects aged 25-75 years were selected from reputed hospitals based on inclusion criteria. Data on demographics, medical history, dietary intake through FFQ and 24-hour dietary recall, anthropometric measurements, handgrip strength, inflammatory & nutritional biomarkers were analysed. Results- Nutrient intake analysis showed 270 subjects had inadequate daily intake of protein, essential fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. BMI was normal (21.1±1.21 kg/m²) among subjects n=93 subjects, n=160 were overweight/obese (25.54±1.98 kg/m²), n=24 were undernourished (16.93±1.43 kg/m²). Handgrip strength was weak in 210 subjects, 85 were normal, and only 5 were strong. Clinical signs & symptoms, including joint pain, swelling and stiffness, were mild in males and moderate in females. Nutritional biomarkers showed normal calcium (8.63±0.66mg/dl) and hemoglobin (14.01±0.27g/dl) levels in males but low calcium (7.99±0.12mg/dl) and hemoglobin (11.82±0.08g/dl) levels in females. Inflammatory markers, ESR (76.74±27.26mm/hr) and CRP (36.67±20.24mg/dl), were higher in females compared to males ESR (43±17.51mm/hr) and CRP (25.68±5.20mg/dl). Conclusion- The evidence suggests the need for nutrient-dense diet, focusing more on protective-nutrients such as protein, calcium, iron, and essential fatty acids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. A holistic approach combining medical and nutrition therapy is recommended for better RA management and improved quality of life.

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Authors (5)

Dr Sudha Sairam

JSS Academy of Higher Educatio...

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Madhura B P

JSS Academy of Higher Educatio...

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Dr Subramanian R

JSS Academy of Higher Educatio...

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Dr Anilkumar C S

Dixit Aarogya Dhaama, Ayurveda...

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Dr Ajay Koushik

Brundavana Hospital

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Article Information

BJMHR5130002

BJMHR-13-000015

11-27

2026-05-11

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How to Cite

Sudha, D., & B, M. & Subramanian, D. & Dr Anilkumar C S & Ajay, D. (2026). A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF NUTRITIONAL INADEQUACIES IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. British Journal of Medical and Health Research, 13(5), 11-27. https://bjmhr.com/articles/BJMHR5130002

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