Natural Remedies Series: Arthritis

Hand with arthritis

When we have a problem with our bodies, our first thought is to see a doctor. But not everyone has easy access to doctors or their advice. And sometimes the medicines we take have side effects or leave our bodies weak. Knowledge is power, so the more we know, the better equipped we are to deal with the curveballs life throws at us.
It’s imperative that we do the best we can for the bodies we have, so I began this series entitled “Natural Remedies”.

I’ll take ailments and diseases that directly or indirectly affect us all, and give natural remedies that can help. Natural remedies can be used alone or in conjunction with your doctor’s care, depending on the seriousness of the situation (please see Important Notice to Our Readers at bottom).

What is arthritis? It’s a disease that causes pain and swelling in your joints. Two common forms of the disease are osteoarthritis, usually affecting those over age 45, and rheumatoid arthritis, which can strike those in their 20s. Pain from osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage (which cushions the joints), while rheumatoid arthritis attacks the lining of the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Another form, metabolic arthritis, also known as gout, is caused by characterized by excessive levels of uric acid in the blood. This produces pain and inflammation in the joints. Gout mainly affects the feet, most often the big toe, but can be found in other joints as well.

What are the symptoms? Joints that are stiff in the morning, but loosen up during the day or stiffness that lasts more than 6 weeks, joint pain or swelling that does not respond to heat, ice packs, aspirin or ibuprofen, and chills or fever along with swollen joints. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor.

How can I treat it naturally? Some studies have shown that a vegetarian diet helps reduce or eliminate arthritis pain, although the specific reasons for this are unknown. If you’re not interested in giving up meat or dairy, you could try supplementing your daily diet with beneficial juices. Pineapples contain bromelain, which reduces inflammation and swelling. Black cherries have been used for years in treating gout, due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming these fruits raw or juicing them and drinking them fresh twice a day is best. Don’t have time to juice? Try “Just Black Cherry” from R.W. Knudsen. http://www.knudsenjuices.com/..&productID=490 Other foods to add to your diet include beets, broccoli, oats, onions, and papaya. Overall, it’s best to follow a diet high in antioxidant fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods like sugar, citrus fruits, refined carbohydrates and alcohol, as they contribute to inflammation.

Many doctors are now recommending glucosamine, a supplement found at most health food stores or in the vitamin department at most grocery stores. Glucosamine is a compound found naturally in the body, and it is used in the formation and repair of cartilage. It helps by strengthening your body’s natural repair mechanisms. The older we get, the slower our bodies produce glucosamine, which may be a contributing factor to joint pain. Studies show that those who use glucosamine experience relief at about the same level as those who take NSAIDS, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Glucosamine can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks to kick in, so be patient if you don’t feel results right away. Note: Consult your health care provider before taking glucosamine, especially if you suffer from diabetes, are allergic to shellfish, or are pregnant or nursing.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO OUR READERS

The information contained on Warriorfitnessworld.com is presented for the purpose of educating people about health, fitness, and wellness and is not intended to replace the services of a physician. The ideas and suggestions on this site are designed to help you make informed decisions about your health. They are not intended to help you make a diagnosis about your health, nor are they a substitute for any treatment that has been prescribed by your doctor. The information contained on this website should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Should you have any health care related questions, or suspect you have a medical problem, please call or see your physician or other qualified health care provider promptly. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program. You should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this web site. You, the reader, must take full responsibility for all decisions about your health and for how you use this website. Therefore, the author disclaims any responsibility for any adverse effects that result form your use of the information on this website.

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