I got my diagnosis in March 2014 so I'm pretty new too. I am also RF negative and anti CCP positive. When you search for dietary info about cause and treatments, most qualified medical sites on the internet tell you that diet does not cause RA. You are genetically predisposed and something environmentally triggers it. That could be an infection, smoking, or possibly being exposed to any number of chemicals. Processed foods, fried foods, chemicals added to soils/pesticides...may well be the trigger for different people. No-one really knows for sure because our immune systems are unique to each of us. Stress plays an important role too....and how our bodies react to stress. So if you have a high stress lifestyle, it may have played a part in predisposed you to RA.
Basic dietary changes should be employed. I don't believe the average person can cure RA with elimination diets...not that some haven't worked. Most people can't afford to follow a specialty diet. I tried gluten free and vegetarian. Neither have cured my RA. I have to say though, I do feel better when I cut out processed sugars. Generally, we need extra protein...because as RA advances it causes muscle wasting. So mild exercise with added protein will help keep your muscles healthy. A healthy diet is always wise. Fresh is always the best. Stay on the outer edges of the grocery store as much as possible where the whole foods are. Stay away from as many processed foods as possible. Most of us need extra Vitamin D, C, calcium, and magnesium. Curcumin (in turmeric), ginger, pineapple...are good anti inflammatory. Salmon oil is also good.
If methotrexate is causing stomach issues, it can be taken by injection. If you see no improvement your meds should be adjusted every 3 months...usually by increasing, adding to, or changing. Prevention is key...to delay damage, to decrease flares, to buy time. Sorry this was so long winded!

I have in the beginning after having horrible side effects from medicines I went to holistic dr and they cleaned out my system so my immune system could work properly. Everyone is different in foods that work for them but I try to eat clean no processed, organic, foods. Lots of veggies except no or little eggplant,tomato,peppers,(night shades). I eat a lot of no antibiotic free range chicken, turkey burgers, chicken sausage(just watch sodium) then veggies and fruits. Nuts and seeds good also! For me it's best to stay away from soy, dairy,gluten, sugar,and wheat. I have some great recepes and I lost weight and feel good.

I have had RA since before 20 and now going to turn 70 oops! Do not for a minute did I under estimate the value of nutrition, exercise, taking vitamins and keeping my smile. I have been through a lot but most of the time just settle in to ignoring pain{really} until it knocks me down. In the meantime research, research internet and RA team is terrific sources of compassion.

Controlling RA with nutrition is wishful thinking. A useful adjunct to managing RA is the key. I cook with turmeric, ginger, and other antiinflammatories, and I try to eat clean which helps my health in general but didn't see any lowering in crp until I started new med regime. My first RA drug was MTX in 1994 but have gone on to many others since then.

Well salt and sugar and bread seem to make you feel miserable and you gain weight so one month ago I went on a heart healthy diet and have lost 35 pounds I am in a wheelchair so I can't exercise but I can walk a little with my walker and still lost weight crazy !