Has rheumatoid arthritis made a permanent home in your body? If "yes" is your answer, then you're probably wondering how you're going to cope with this disease in the days ahead.

Here's good news! Rheumatoid arthritis needn't spoiled your enjoyment of your present and future. One of the first things you need to do in order to enjoy life with rheumatoid arthritis is to increase your health as much as possible. With that in mind, here are three tips that can help you raise the level of your health:

1. Be aware of what your body is trying to tell you.

When you've overtaxed your body, it will certainly let you know. It would be wise to listen to your body's warnings and don't overdo it. When you seem to be suffering unusual discomfort, try to figure out what has caused the pain. After a while you'll become aware when you're pushing yourself too hard.

2. Be sure to add regular exercise to your life.

It's no secret that exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle, but it is especially important for you. For this reason you need to set up a regular schedule of physical activities to help yourself feel better. There are many benefits from exercising. One of the benefits is increased flexibility which will help ease your pain. Another well-known benefit is the strengthening of your muscles. Add bounce to your steps by exercising regularly! Therefore, don't avoid exercising because you have rheumatoid arthritis. Your body will let you know when you're doing too much.

When you stick with a regular schedule of exercise, you'll also strengthen your heart.

Did you know the one of the best exercises of all is walking on a regular basis? You might want to think about checking to see if there is a water aerobics class within driving distance. That's because working out in water is less stressful physically. It's safer to exercise in a swimming pool since your body is surrounded by cushioning water.

Visit your doctor and get his or her advice before beginning any strenuous exercise program. Let your medical professional help you choose your exercises. Your doctor is probably already aware of exercises that are especially helpful to those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.

Consider checking to see if physical therapy would benefit you.Your doctor may be able to recommend a physical therapist for you.

3. Be sure your diet is as healthy as possible.

Be kind to your body and eat foods that will help it to feel better instead of foods that will tear your body down.. Foods that are devoid of nutritional value will not help anyone -- no matter what age they are. However, as a rheumatoid arthritis patient, what you eat will affect you drastically. obesity will greatly increase your discomfort. That's because your joints will have to bear the extra weight.

Be sure to eat lots of fruits and vegetables that are filled with vitamins. Consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements as well. When you go shopping, choose lean proteins (like fish) and low-fat dairy products. These necessary additions to your diet build and maintain strong bones.

You should be highly motivated to help yourself feel as good as possible, so consider following the tips in this article. The results will be worth it.