#ACR24 Abstracts: Diet, Supplements & Cannabis

Nutrition

Assessing the Feasibility of a Mediterranean-Style Diet for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Racially and Culturally Diverse Population Across the United States

The study assesses the feasibility of adopting a Mediterranean-style diet among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a racially and culturally diverse population across the United States. The findings indicate that while many patients showed interest in the diet, barriers such as food insecurity, time constraints, and food aversions were common. The study highlights the need for tailored dietary interventions and support to help diverse RA populations adopt healthier eating habits.

Dietary Modification and Intermittent Fasting Are Common in Patients with Axial Spondylarthritis and May Lead to Reduced Inflammatory Activity 

This study examined how dietary modifications and intermittent fasting (IF) impact inflammatory activity in patients with axial spondylarthritis (axSpA). The research included 466 axSpA patients. Key findings showed that 55% of patients reported following a specific diet, with the Mediterranean diet being the most common (51%); 31% were currently practicing IF, and 48% had tried it previously. Importantly, both dietary changes and IF were associated with reduced inflammatory activity in patients. The study suggests that dietary modifications and intermittent fasting may help decrease inflammation in axSpA patients.

Dietary Exposures Associated with Incident Spondyloarthritis

This study examined the association between dietary factors and the risk of developing spondyloarthritis (SpA). The research identified 106 incident SpA patients and matched them with 530 controls. Non-diet soda and certain supplements (folate, other B-vitamins, and fish oil) were linked to an increased SpA risk, while moderate alcohol use was associated with lower risk. Greater fruit and vegetable intake showed a trend towards reduced risk, but this was not statistically significant; similarly, milk/dairy intake trended towards higher risk, but was also not significant. The study suggests that specific dietary factors and supplements may impact SpA risk, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Association Between Gut Microbiota, Inflammation, and Epigenetics in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

The study explores the association between gut microbiota, inflammation, and epigenetic modifications in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It found that RA patients had dysbiosis (altered gut microbiota) and lower microbiota diversity compared to healthy controls. Specific epigenetic changes were associated with RA diagnosis, suggesting that gut microbiota and inflammation may play a role in the development and progression of RA.

Characterizing Diet and Neighborhood Resources in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The study explores the diet and neighborhood resources available to patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). It aims to understand how these factors influence dietary habits and overall health outcomes. The study involves 150 participants from the Lupus Intervention Fatigue Trial (LIFT) and examines the relationship between neighborhood resources (measured by the Areas of Deprivation Index) and dietary intake (assessed using the Healthy Eating Index). Preliminary findings suggest that neighborhood resources play a significant role in shaping dietary habits among SLE patients

Effects of Butyrate Supplementation in Modulation of Gut Microbiome and Its Metabolites in New Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis

This study examined the effects of butyrate supplementation on the gut microbiome and its metabolites in patients with new-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The research included patients with newly diagnosed RA who received butyrate supplements for a specified period. Findings showed that butyrate supplementation led to changes in the gut microbiome and its metabolites. Importantly, there was a reduction in inflammation markers, suggesting potential benefits for managing RA. The study suggests that butyrate supplementation may positively impact the gut microbiome and reduce inflammation in RA patients.

Patients’ Behaviors and Beliefs Around Dietary Changes Among a Cohort of Patients with Rheumatic Disease

This study examined patients' behaviors and beliefs about dietary changes related to their rheumatic diseases. The research included 181 adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Nearly three-quarters of participants considered improving their diet to manage symptoms, but only 40% were currently following a modified diet. The primary motivations for dietary changes were symptom improvement and preventing other autoimmune diseases. Common barriers included giving up favorite foods, lack of willpower, and cost. Notably, only 25% of participants had discussed dietary changes with their healthcare providers. The study suggests that while patients are interested in dietary changes, they face several barriers and need more support from their providers.

Safety and Tolerability of a Combination of Curcumin, Omega-3 and Vitamin-D: Results from the PASCOD Study, an RA Prevention Protocol

The PASCOD study evaluated the safety and tolerability of a combination of curcumin, omega-3, and vitamin D in healthy volunteers. The study found that most side effects were mild, with the most common being heartburn, fishy taste, and abdominal bloating. No significant laboratory abnormalities were detected, and adherence to the supplement regimen was high

Cannabis

A Significant Alteration in Circulating Endocannabinoid Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Syndrome Patients and Its Correlation with Diseases Severity

The article discusses a study on circulating endocannabinoid levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Endocannabinoids are chemicals naturally produced in the body that are similar to compounds found in cannabis. The researchers found significant changes in these levels in patients with RA and FMS and explored how these changes correlate with the severity of the diseases.

Key Take Aways For Patients

The 2024 American College of Rheumatology conference brought together researchers from around the world to share the latest findings on managing rheumatic diseases. Several studies focused on the role of diet, supplements, and cannabis in alleviating symptoms and potentially preventing disease progression. Here's what patients need to know:

• Mediterranean diet shows promise, but barriers remain: A study found interest in a Mediterranean-style diet among rheumatoid arthritis patients, but food insecurity and other issues hindered adoption. This highlights the need for personalized dietary advice and support.
  
• Dietary modifications and fasting may reduce inflammation: Patients with axial spondylarthritis who made dietary changes or practiced intermittent fasting had lower inflammatory activity. While promising, more research is needed to confirm the benefits.
  
• Certain foods and supplements may impact disease risk: Consuming non-diet soda and certain supplements increased the risk of developing spondyloarthritis, while moderate alcohol use lowered it, according to a study on dietary exposures. These findings suggest that dietary choices may play a role in preventing disease.
  
• Gut health matters: Research highlighted the link between the gut microbiome, inflammation, and rheumatoid arthritis. Supplementing with butyrate, a compound produced by gut bacteria, reduced inflammation in new-onset RA patients.
  
• Patients are interested in diet, but need guidance: A survey found that most patients with rheumatic diseases want to improve their diet, but only a minority had discussed this with their doctors. This underscores the need for healthcare providers to proactively address nutrition with patients.

While these studies offer valuable insights, it's essential for patients to consult with their healthcare team before making any significant changes to their diet or supplement routine. With personalized guidance and support, patients can harness the potential of nutrition and lifestyle modifications to better manage their conditions.