Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterised by systemic inflammation and joint damage. While conventional medicine typically manages RA with immunosuppressive drugs, the functional medicine approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes to promote long-term healing and remission. This holistic perspective considers how food, gut health, detoxification, and sensitivities influence RA and how natural therapies, such as an anti inflammatory diet and a simple cabbage water recipe, can support healing.
RA is a complex condition that arises from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Some key contributors include:
1. Gut Dysbiosis and Leaky Gut Syndrome: The gut plays a significant role in immune regulation. Increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) allows undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, triggering an autoimmune response. Studies show that RA patients often have imbalances in gut bacteria, particularly an overgrowth of pathogenic species and a deficiency in beneficial bacteria.
2. Chronic Inflammation and Immune Dysregulation: RA is marked by systemic inflammation driven by an overactive immune system. Factors such as poor diet, high toxin burden, and persistent infections can keep the immune system in a state of hyper-reactivity.
3. Food Sensitivities and Autoimmunity: Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation in RA patients.
Common food triggers include:
Gluten – Can increase gut permeability and trigger an immune response.
Dairy – Contains proteins that may cross-react with joint tissues.
Nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, aubergines) – May contribute to joint pain in sensitive individuals.
Processed Sugar & Refined Carbs – Promote systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.
4. Toxin Accumulation and Detoxification Impairment: Impaired detoxification pathways, can lead to an accumulation of toxins making the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system work hard to restore balance.
Research shows that RA affects women nearly three times more than men, suggesting that hormonal imbalances may be a contributing factor.
5. Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, magnesium, and antioxidants can contribute to increased inflammation and joint degradation.
Signs & Symptoms of RA
Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the morning
Fatigue and brain fog
Digestive disturbances (bloating, IBS, or food sensitivities)
Muscle weakness and loss of function in affected joints
Skin rashes or nodules
Mood imbalances (anxiety, depression)
Functional Medicine Strategies for RA Healing
1. Healing the Gut: The Role of Cabbage Water!
A key component of RA management is restoring gut integrity. Cabbage water, a simple fermented drink made from blending chopped cabbage in hot water. This provides probiotics and nutrients that help reduce leaky gut, improve digestion, and support the immune system.
How to Make Cabbage Water:
Roughly chop 1/2 head of raw cabbage.
Add to a blender with 1Litre of (filtered) boiling water.
Let it sit at room temperature for 24 - 48 hours, then strain and refrigerate.
Drink 200ml each morning before food for 10 days (can be added to smoothies if preferred).
2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet:
Increase Omega-3s – Found in wild-caught salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds to reduce joint inflammation.
Focus on Antioxidants – Brightly coloured vegetables and fruits (e.g., berries, carrots, spinach) combat oxidative stress.
Bone Broth & Collagen – Supports gut lining repair and joint health.
Fermented Foods – Sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha replenish beneficial gut bacteria.
Eliminate Processed Foods & Sugar – Reduces inflammatory cytokine production.
3. Addressing Food Sensitivities: An elimination diet (removing gluten, dairy, soy, eggs, alcohol, caffeine and processed foods for at least four weeks) can help identify food triggers. Gradually reintroduce one challenge food at a time, with 2 servings across the first day, wait 72 hours and note any reactions. if there are no reactions repeat with the next challenge food.
4. Supporting Detoxification Pathways: The liver and kidneys play a crucial role in clearing toxins. Enhance detoxification by:
Drinking warm lemon water in the morning.
Use dry brushing and sauna therapy to support lymphatic drainage.
Increase fibre intake (chia, flaxseeds, vegetables especially broccoli) to bind and remove toxins.
5. Managing Stress and Sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep elevate cortisol levels, which can worsen inflammation.
Mindfulness and yoga help regulate immune responses.
Chamomile tea before bed supports deep sleep.
Epsom salt baths.
RA is more than just a joint disease—it’s a whole-body condition influenced by gut health, toxins, diet, and stress. By healing the gut, eliminating inflammatory triggers, supporting detox pathways, and restoring balance to the immune system, many RA patients experience significant symptom relief and even remission.
Take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced you with our 3-Month Kick-Start Plan—a personalised journey designed to uncover the root causes of your symptoms for lasting well-being.
Best of luck and warm wishes,
Diane & The Functional You Team
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