Many forms of arthritis are driven by inflammation. The Standard American Diet—rich in animal products, refined oils, and processed foods—fuels that inflammation. A whole-food plant-based diet can reduce joint pain and stiffness for many people, often within weeks.
Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune joint diseases improve when animal protein and saturated fat are removed and replaced with starches, vegetables, and fruit. Gout is tightly linked to purines and animal foods; plant-based patterns typically lower uric acid and flare frequency.
Osteoarthritis is often treated as “wear and tear,” but excess body weight and systemic inflammation accelerate cartilage damage. Losing weight on a plant-based diet reduces mechanical load while also calming inflammatory pathways.
As with any chronic disease, coordinate medication changes with your physician. For science summaries and patient stories, start with Dr. McDougall and NutritionFacts.org, and review the Fix Yourself section for related conditions.