Table 1. Descriptions and examples of interventions included
in the integrative management of rheumatoid
arthritis guideline
Intervention Description and/or examples
Dietary
Formally defined diet Specific formally defined diets evaluated in this guideline were:
anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean-style, ketogenic, paleo,
gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, intermittent fasting, elemental,
elimination, raw foods, whole food plant-based.
Mediterranean-style
diet
Diet pattern that emphasizes intake of vegetables, fruits,
whole grains, nuts, seeds, and olive oil; moderate amounts of
low-fat dairy and fish; and limits added sugars, sodium, highly
processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats.
Dietary supplement Substances used to add nutrients, botanicals, herbs, or
microbials (probiotics) to the diet. Specific supplements
evaluated in this guideline were vitamin D, probiotics, fish oil
and omega fatty acids, antioxidants (selenium, zinc, vitamin A,
vitamin C, vitamin E), turmeric, glucosamine, γ-linolenic acid,
borage seed oil, evening primrose oil, black currant seed oil,
selenium, Boswellia, ginger.
Weight loss Intentional loss of body weight. Examples include lifestyle
modification through diet and/or exercise, support groups,
health coaching, medically-supervised weight loss programs,
branded dietary weight loss programs, weight loss surgery.
Additional integrative therapies
Self-management
program
Standardized program to guide self-management. Examples
include Arthritis Self-Management Program, Chronic
Disease Self-Management Program, Better Choices Better
Health, Tomando Control de su Salud, RA Self-Management
Intervention, OPERAS (an On-demand Program to
EmpoweR Active Self-management).
Cognitive behavioral
therapy
Psychological therapy to identify and change thought and
behavior patterns.
Mind-body approaches Practices engaging both mind and body functions. Examples
include biofeedback, goal setting, meditation, mindfulness,
breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided
imagery.
Acupuncture Stimulation of specific body points through insertion of thin
needles.
(cont'd)
