There is a great deal of debate in the medical world about the effects of overall diet on arthritis and using diet toward alleviating the condition. Doctors have known for a long time that diet affects gout, a specific type of arthritic condition, however the jury remained out for a long time on other common types of arthritis such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
However, overall dietary health is important and does come into play. Being overweight can affect certain arthritic conditions, forcing some joints to carry more of a load. This added weight stresses the joints, causing overuse or more wear to components, and pain, especially in the knees. So making sure arthritic sufferers eat good foods and get help from healthcare providers to create and follow a well-balanced dietary plan is advised.
To begin, here is a look at some vitamins, minerals, nutrients/foods and some herbal applications to consider.
VITAMINS
Vitamin B5 – When grouped and taken together, B vitamins work at their peak. They, and B5 specifically, are good for reducing swelling.
Vitamin B3 – This vitamin reduces tissue swelling and dilates small arteries, increasing blood flow. Note that Vitamin B3 is NOT advised for persons with high blood pressure, gout or sliver disorders.
Vitamin B6 – Another B vitamin that reduces tissue swelling.
Vitamin B12 – This vitamin aids in multiple functions. It helps with cell formation, digestion, myelin production, nerve protection.
Vitamin C – This vitamin acts as an anti-inflammatory, relieving pain, and rids the body of free radicals. Click here for more info on Vitamin C.
Vitamin E – This is a strong antioxidant that protects joints from free radicals while increases joint flexibility. Click here for more info on Vitamin E.
Vitamin K – This vitamin assists with mineral deposit into the bone matrix.
Click here for more info on Vitamin K.
MINERALS
Boron – This trace mineral aids in bone health. Click here for more info on Boron. Anecdotal reports, combined with some epidemiological findings, suggest that supplemental boron may alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis. See the site http://www.all-natural.com/bone.html for an example of material about the boron-arthritis connection.
Calcium – This is a much-needed mineral for bone health.
Click here for more info on Calcium.
Magnesium – Magnesium helps keep calcium in balance within the system.
Click here for more info on Magnesium.
Zinc – This mineral is necessary for bone growth, but is often lacking in arthritic patients.
Click here for more info on Zinc.
Manganese – Manganese is also necessary for bone growth. However, do not ingest manganese with calcium because they can work against each other. Click here for more info on Manganese.
Copper – Copper helps to strengthen connective tissue.
Click here for more info on Copper.
Germanium – This antioxidant helps with pain relief.
Click here for more info on Germanium.
Sulfur – A lack of sulfur can result in deterioration of ligaments, cartilage, collagen and tendons. Click here for more info on Sulfur.
