Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, affects nearly 16 million people in the United States. Stiffness and joint tenderness typically begin after the age of 40, caused by deterioration of the cartilage protecting the ends of the bones. Obesity, poor circulation and occupational wear and tear may play a part in its development.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease progressing to joint swelling, inflammation, deformity and chronic pain.
Although arthritis has plagued mankind since ancient times, some new drugs, therapies and natural remedies show promise to slow, stop or even reverse the progression of this condition.
Medications
Etanercept (Enbrel) is a prescription drug for RA. It blocks an infection-fighting protein that is part of the autoimmune reaction causing inflammation. Enbrel reduces joint damage and relieves symptoms. Serious side effects such as infections and cancer have been linked to this medication, which are detailed in written product inserts.
Celecoxib (Celebrex) is a drug in the family of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen, prescribed for both types of arthritis. Celebrex inhibits prostaglandin production reducing pain, fever and swelling. It treats symptoms and by itself does not slow disease progression. However, pain relief allows mobility and exercise, which slows joint deterioration. Celebrex may cause gastric bleeding and is associated with increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Supplements
Glucosamine sulfate or N-acetylglucosamine are effective forms of an amino sugar that is very important for the formation of bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and synovial (joint) fluid. Caution: Products with NaCl (table salt) or KCL(potassium chloride) are diluted and will not be as potent. Glucosamine may prevent cartilage degeneration. Chondroiton sulfate, a mucopolysacharride that may strengthen joints, can be used in conjunction and may increase efficacy.
Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is a solvent that reduces inflammation and may promote healing when applied topically over tender joints. A garlic-breath odor is the only mild side effect. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organic form of sulfur, a derivative of DMSO, that can be taken orally. Sulfur plays a critical role in maintaining the elasticity and repair of joint tissue. MSM does not produce a garlic breath odor but it does have a slight aspirin-like effect, so consult a doctor when taking MSM with other blood-thinning medications. DMSO and MSM may take several days to a few weeks to be effective.
Vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol form) is a powerful antioxidant that may protect joints from damage by free radicals and increase mobility. Low levels of vitamin E have been found in people with arthritis, according to Phyllis Balch, nutritionist and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Avoid multivitamin supplements containing iron, as synthetic forms of this mineral are suspected of contributing to pain, swelling and joint destruction. Dietary sources of iron do not pose this risk.
Diet
Eating sulfur-rich foods such as asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions provides this mineral needed for the rebuilding of bones, cartilage and connective tissue. Dark green leafy vegetables provide vitamin K, which helps deposit minerals into bone and tissues. Other food sources of vitamin K are fresh vegetables, non-acid fruits, oatmeal, brown rice, fish, tofu and avocados. Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme which reduces inflammation. Freezing and canning destroy the enzyme.
There are enzymes that cause inflammation as well. Cox 2 enzymes produce more inflammation in response to a diet rich in omega-6 fatty acids. To reduce this effect, add more omega-3 fatty acids and eat less omega-6 fats until the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 is closer to 1:1.
Walnuts, flaxseed, hempseed, chia seeds, salmon, tuna, and spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in dairy products and red meat.
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