With reports that antioxidants and other critical nutrients can help stave off disease, many people with arthritis turn to the grocery aisles to save their joints. So, we asked the experts to weigh in on one of the most hotly debated food topics: Is organic necessary for good health? Q: Is there any scientifically proven link between food chemicals and autoimmune diseases like arthritis? A: In the area of autoimmunity, including rheumatoid arthritis, there's not much evidence that eating organic makes a difference, says Dr. Emilio Gonzalez, director and chief of the Division of Rheumatology at UTMB. Still, it makes sense to minimize your exposure to undesirable chemicals, hormones and antibiotics — and eating organic is one way to do that. In fact, he says, the best time to go organic is before arthritis sets in. Since organic foods contain fewer pesticides, theoretically, they wouldn't stimulate the immune system, which may lead to inflammation and ultimately arthritis.