Arthritis - Vitamin and Nutrient Therapies

In the fight to find ease from arthritis, vitamin and nutrient therapies can be a great relief.

The best diet for arthritis sufferers has proven to be low-cholesterol, low-fat, and rich in carbohydrates from vegetables and grains. This diet will reduce fat in the arteries that supply to the joints, thereby allowing more oxygen intake.

In addition to this diet, there are vitamins, minerals, and nutrients available in natural form, which can be very useful to arthritis sufferers.

Vitamin A (beta-carotene) is an antioxidant; neutralising free radicals, which are destructive to the cells.

Vitamins B6, E, and C, encourage collagen production, and repair connective tissues. Zinc has the same properties.

Arthritis sufferers who take aspirin are advised to take extra vitamin C, as aspirin depletes vitamin C in the body.

Boron

Boron is essential for bone health. It helps the regulation of calcium; keeping it in place, whereby strengthening the bones.

Studies have shown that in areas with boron-rich soil, there are less cases of osteoarthritis; presumably because the foods in these areas contain more boron. Boron supplements were given to patients with arthritis, and 90% of cases showed complete remission of symptoms.

For arthritis, Boron is one of the best of the vitamin and nutrient therapies.

Boron is found plentiful in Apples, nuts, and green leafy vegetables.

Bromelain,

Found in pineapple; bromelain is an excellent anti-inflammatory. 200 to 400 mg should be taken three times a day in between meals. The best way is obviously fresh pineapple, but tinned pineapple is also OK: Crush it, mix with its juice, and drink.

Anti-inflammatory prostaglandins are found in several natural oils. The best of these are; blackcurrant seed oil, evening primrose oil, fish oils, flax seed oil, borage oil. 500-1000 milligrams taken twice a day is suggested. Should be continued over several weeks, permanently if required.

Manganese.

This element activates important enzymes, imperative in the development of bones and joints. Many arthritis sufferers have a manganese deficiency. This can be taken in capsules, 5 mg twice a day during one month.

Omega-3.

Omega-3, the fatty acids found in fish, are very good for arthritis, easing pain and aiding movement.

Pantothenic acid, of the vitamin B complex; not only alleviates arthritis, but can help prevent it too. 3 g taken every day will relieve symptoms within a week or two. If however, you see no results after three weeks; discontinue. Some doctors will recommend up to 12 g a day, but this should not be tried without doctors advice.

SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) an amino acid derivative, which helps in cartilage formation. It also has the effect of a mild analgesic. It should be taken in lessening doses as follows:

400 mg three times daily for the first week.

400 mg twice daily for the second week.

200 mg twice daily after that.

Any of these vitamins and minerals can be taken as suggested. Try them for yourself to find which one, or combination, is right for you.

Any of them can be taken with, or instead of, your prescribed medication. The advantages of natural remedies is that they are much kinder to your body.