By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D.
Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries.
It may not be obvious, but your diet can play a significant role in managing arthritis symptoms. Because arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation, choosing anti-inflammatory foods becomes especially important, including everyday staples like bread. Keep reading to learn which foods may help ease arthritis symptoms and which ones are best to avoid.
Does diet affect arthritis? What is the best diet for arthritis sufferers?
Yes, diet can affect arthritis symptoms. Because arthritis involves joint inflammation, foods that promote inflammation may worsen joint pain and stiffness, while an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce symptoms. Diets such as the Mediterranean diet, which emphasize whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, are often recommended for people with arthritis.
Are there any foods you should avoid with arthritis? Can you eat bread with arthritis?
If you’re living with arthritis, it’s best to avoid inflammatory foods that can worsen joint swelling and pain. These include processed and fried foods, added sugars, red meat, alcohol, and foods high in saturated or trans fats. While you can eat bread with arthritis, choosing whole grain bread is generally recommended, as refined grains may contribute to inflammation, whereas whole grains provide fiber and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
Which bread is anti-inflammatory? Which bread is best for an anti-inflammatory diet?
Whole grain bread and sourdough bread are considered anti-inflammatory and fit well within an anti-inflammatory diet. Whole grain bread, including whole wheat bread and rye bread, is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients that can help reduce inflammation. Sourdough bread also has anti-inflammatory properties due to its unique fermentation process. Opting for anti-inflammatory bread such as whole wheat bread or sourdough bread may help support joint health and reduce inflammation associated with arthritis.
Is whole wheat bread ok for arthritis? Is white bread ok for arthritis?
Whole wheat bread is generally recommended for arthritis because it is made from whole grains. Whole grains have been shown to support weight management and reduce inflammation, both of which can lessen stress on the joints and ease arthritic symptoms. White bread, on the other hand, is made from refined grains that can promote inflammation, potentially increasing joint swelling and pain. Choosing whole wheat bread over white bread is a simple swap that may help support joint health and reduce discomfort associated with arthritis.
Is sourdough bread better for arthritis? Is sourdough bread ok to eat on an anti-inflammatory diet?
Sourdough bread can be a better option for arthritis compared to regular white bread. Its long fermentation process helps break down gluten and other components, making it easier to digest and potentially reducing inflammation. This process also supports gut health, which can play a role in managing overall inflammation associated with arthritis. For these reasons, sourdough bread is generally considered safe to include on an anti-inflammatory diet. Choosing sourdough bread over refined breads can be a simple way to enjoy bread while improving arthritis symptoms.
Does gluten affect arthritis? Is gluten-free bread good for arthritis?
Gluten may negatively affect arthritis symptoms for some people. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can worsen joint pain and inflammation. Some studies show that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis may be more likely to have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, which can explain why gluten triggers symptoms in some of these groups. Paying attention to how gluten affects your arthritis symptoms and discussing dietary changes with your healthcare provider can be helpful in managing your arthritis symptoms. If gluten is a trigger for you, gluten-free bread can be a good option for enjoying bread while supporting an arthritis-friendly diet.
What is the best bread for arthritis?
The best bread for arthritis ultimately depends on your specific type of arthritis and individual food triggers. In general, anti-inflammatory bread options such as whole wheat bread, sourdough bread, and rye bread may help reduce inflammation and ease joint swelling and pain. If you have been diagnosed with or suspect a gluten intolerance or gluten sensitivity, gluten-free bread may be the best choice to help manage arthritis symptoms.
Where can I buy healthy bread online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include whole wheat sourdough, plain sourdough loaf and rye sourdough loaf. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.



