Diet For Arthritis-The Truth About Your Diet As a Cure for Arthritis

Does diet and nutrition affect rheumatoid arthritis?  Is there a diet for arthritis that will help relieve joint pain?  Research in this area shows confusing and contradicting results. However, some common elements appear regularly in research studies which would indicate these are worth considering.

Research results and many experts agree that rheumatoid arthritis patients tend to be deficient in folic acid, B vitamins (B6 and B12), vitamins C, D, and E, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. Folic acid and the B vitamins deficiencies occur especially in patients taking methotrexate. Certainly eating a balanced diet is the first best form of nutrition, but supplements may be needed to meet the extra needs of rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Two different studies with mice show that both green tea and a combination of fish oil with vitamin E reduce the inflammation related to cytokines. The presence of cytokines (pro-inflammatory) in the blood correlates to inflammation in the joints resulting in pain for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.

Some studies indicate that green tea also aids the body in metabolizing fat which makes it an excellent aid to rheumatoid arthritis patients taking prednisone which causes excessive fat storage. Whether this works or not, green tea is recognized as an excellent anti-oxidant and certainly can’t hurt patients with autoimmune diseases.

Does diet or certain foods cause flare-ups in rheumatoid arthritis? Again research is controversial. Many experts recognize that allergens affect rheumatoid arthritis because it is an autoimmune disease. So anything that affects the immune system might affect RA. Most experts caution against radical diet changes especially elimination diets or fasting due to the risks of malnutrition or other side effects.

So what is safe and how do you find what works for you? Careful, logical, and systematic testing of foods in your diet can give positive information that will help rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. The best thing to do is begin to journal everything. Keep a daily log of all food and beverages consumed. With this log, record daily activities including exercise and anything that causes pain (e.g. opening a jar, lifting, rising, swollen joints, etc.). Over time if there is a repeated pain with a common cause then eliminate that food or activity.

Each person is unique and each case of rheumatoid arthritis will vary. Determine to eat a healthy diet and use supplements as needed in a healthy way. With study, reasonable effort, and care you can determine the kind of diet and supplements that work for you.

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Three Popular Herbs For Arthritis

Herbs For Arthritis

There are a lot of helpful herbs for arthritis. A lot of people prefer to use natural solutions for their pain instead of pharmaceuticals. Different herbs for arthritis are available online or in health food stores.

Alfalfa is one of the folk remedy herbs for arthritis. People in southern Appalachia use Alfalfa tea because it is rich with nutritive minerals. It is recommended that you do not take alfalfa powder; but take the tea instead.

Alfalfa as herbs for arthritis contains an amino acid that can cause symptoms that are similar to systemic lupus. Systemic lupus is an autoimmune disease that can also cause joint pain. There have been some scientific studies that show that these symptoms can occur in both animals and humans as a result of eating alfalfa. There is not a significant amount of the amino acid in alfalfa tea.

To use alfalfa as herbs for arthritis, place 1 ounce of alfalfa in a pot and cover it with one quart of water. The alfalfa needs to boil for thirty minutes. After the alfalfa has boiled, strain it and drink the quart throughout the day. The alfalfa tea regimen should only be done for two to three weeks, and then you should take a break for seven to ten days before starting again.

Angelica is an herbs for arthritis that has been used in European folk medicine since antiquity. It can be used to treat arthritis. The Western variety of angelica has twelve anti-inflammatory constituents, ten muscle relaxant constituents, and five pain-relieving ones.

The Chinese sometimes use their native variety of the plant herbs for arthritis. The Chinese species is sold in North America under the names dang gui or dong quai. It has been gaining in popularity because it works.

To use angelica as herbs for arthritis, place one tablespoon of the cut roots of either species of angelica into a pint of water and bring it to a boil. Cover and boil for two minutes. Remove the herbs for arthritis from the heat and let stand, covered, until the water cools to room temperature. Strain and drink the tea in three doses during the day for two to three weeks at a time. Then, take a break for seven to ten days and start the treatment again if desired.

Black Cohosh is an American Indian treatment herbs for arthritis using the root of a black cohosh. There are five species worldwide that have been used to treat rheumatism. Black cohosh contains aspirin-like substances as well as other anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Black Cohosh needs to simmer to be effective herbs for arthritis. Simmer one teaspoon of black cohosh root in one cup of boiling water for about twenty minutes. The root will need to be strained and the tea should be divided into two doses to take during the day. As with all herbs for arthritis, treatment can last for two to three weeks, then a break needs to be taken for seven to ten days before starting the treatment again.

By: Suellen Cazarez

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Suellen has been suffering from arthritis for over 20 years and has researched and tested numerous techniques from arthritis medical journals. She prides herself in keeping up to date with the latest arthritis remedy as well as medical developments in this field and she shares her knowledge with you at www.awoscentral.com

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Great Diet For Arthritis That Will Provide Joint Pain Relief

Treat Yourself To A Diet That Helps Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are many natural cures for arthritis including learning about and following the rheumatoid arthritis diet to help alleviate symptoms of painful joints.

Treatments for overcoming Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
This list includes both natural rheumatoid arthritis diet and alternative arthritis remedies for curing arthritis, as well as artificially prepared drugs and other medications. Though it may seem counterintuitive one of the natural cures for arthritis suggestions to relieving pain is to exercise. However, it is important to work with knowledgeable therapists who can develop a safe routine that will not aggravate the existing problem.

Exercise works because it can help improve movement and reduce stiffness, it can help keep up the strength of muscles that will protect and support the affected joints and it can improve circulation which is beneficial for overall health. Add to that the bonus that it may reduce or control weight that adds stress to afflicted joints.

Proper rest is always important for the body to help restore itself. And it is thought that inflammation eases off when the body is able to achieve a restful stage.

Massage and hydrotherapy help to relieve stiffness in joints and both work to improve circulation. For some individuals that are very nearly crippled with arthritis they have found that being in a pool allows them the only real opportunity to have movement and exercise free from the stress on their sore joints. It can provide some very real blessed moments of relief.

Another area to be explored for alternative arthritis remedies is the strength of one’s perceptions. It has been noted that anxiety and uncertainty about what is happening in one’s own body can accentuate the pain felt. This means that gaining a clear understanding of what is occurring and what can be done in the way of treatment can work to relieve some of the stress and thus some of the pain as well.

As has been shown time and again - a calm and positive outlook will produce a better reaction in the physical body over a bitter and negative one. Focusing on things that are enjoyable and uplifting can go a long way in keeping one’s mind from dwelling on the pain. Pain that is dwelt on seems to always increase. Granted, it may take a supreme effort to begin such a pattern of thinking but the reward of improving the quality of life that we have been given will always be worth it.

Sea-bathing is another popular natural remedy. Since natural iodine present in sea water helps relieve arthritis pain, it is a good option. It is one of the most natural cures for arthritis as it regenerates the tissues that have been worn out as a result of arthritis.

Try eating a rheumatoid arthritis diet which help cure arthritis: Poor diet, obesity, lack of nutrition in diet are some of the factors which can lead to the state of RA, and hence a change in one’s diets, and inclusion of a certain class of food items in the diet can drastically improve the condition.

Diet that helps rheumatoid arthritis:

Changing your diet can help cure arthritis. Excess weight increases the pressure on the joints, and thus causes pain in joints, so starting a weight loss program can be of enormous benefit to anyone suffering from painful joints. You can also focus your daily nutrition intake to include specific food items that help alleviate the pain and hence enhance the overall curing process.

There is a site with contributions from Helene Malmsio, a nutritional consultant since 1994, where she writes about the natural cures and home remedies suggested for rheumatoid arthritis diet - detailing the specific foods that help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and also including the benefits of using Tang Kuei and vitamin nutrition supplements in your diet for those who do not have time to monitor their meals every day to make sure they include the complete arthritis diet.

The diet for arthritis food items below contain essential nutrients that increase the blood supply and also alleviate the stiffness in the joints.

Coconut/ Mustard oil
Raw and fresh vegetables and fruits
Consumption of meat must be reduced
Avoid consumption of butter, cream etc. Saturated fats are considered to be detrimental during arthritis cure.
Tang Kuei: Also known as the Queen amongst herbs, tang kuei acts as a balancing factor of hormones. It reduces the pain in joints during arthritis. It also reduces nervous tension and stress that accompany RA. All in all, it acts as a calming agent both physically and mentally, and is paramount for natural cure for arthritis.

By: Sean Anderson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

To learn more about creating a better arthritis diet visit www.thehealthsuccesssite.com/helene-malmsio.html for a comprehensive self care & nutrition guide to all A to Z health problems including Rheumatoid Arthritis

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A Natural Remedy For Gout-Celery

Celery Cures Gout ? It May Reduce Pain, Lower Blood Pressure and Be A Gout Remedy

This article explains why celery stalks, or celery seed extracts, are beneficial in various ways for gout sufferers and how it is thought to work for them. The opinions of two experts and the results of two small studies are explained. Suggestions for how to eat celery are included.

Both celery stalks and seeds are touted as gout remedies for reducing uric acid levels, reducing pain, and as a diuretic to lower blood pressure. How can the humble celery stalk, or extracts of its seeds, be so helpful?

Gout cures require the reduction of uric acid levels. The usual clinical target is a serum (blood) level of 6 mg/dL. Reducing uric acid levels often dissolves the MSU crystals which are mainly formed from uric acid. The immune system’s reaction to these crystals is the immediate cause of pain and inflammation. Drugs such as Allopurinol are xanthine oxidase inhibitors — it inhibits the enzyme which is responsible for a major step in converting purines into uric acid in the liver, so less uric acid is produced.

Celery is one of the natural substances which may inhibit xanthine oxidase, according to a study on rats, where rats lowered their uric acid from 3-n-butylpthalide, or 3nB for short. This is the substance in celery that gives celery its distinctive smell and flavour.

But 3nB’s benefits for gout sufferers go further. 3nB also has diuretic properties. Thus it promotes the excretion of urine and can lower uric acid levels by improving its excretion in urine. Furthermore, as a diuretic, it acts to reduce blood pressure which is important for gout sufferers because high blood pressure frequently accompanies gout.

Celery and Pain Relief

Two small studies reached interesting and hopeful conclusions about celery as a pain reliever. A celery extract, standardized to contain 85% 3nB was given to 15 arthritis, osteoporosis and gout sufferers. They took 34mg twice daily for three weeks. After three weeks the patients reported lower pain levels, and some reported complete pain relief.

Obviously encouraged by the results, the study was repeated among a larger group, 70 patients this time, who took a higher dosage (75mg) twice daily for three weeks. The results were better than in the first study. The probability that this beneficial outcome was NOT a consequence of the dosage was calculated at 1 in 1,000 chances.

Two small studies "do not make a summer." And more research is required to learn more about celery’s positive effect on uric acid levels.

Expert Opinion

Noted experts have also endorsed celery as a gout remedy. A well known naturopathic doctor, Michael Murray N.D., author of "Dr.Murray’s Total Body Tune Up" has recommended celery, with the usual caveat that more needs to be learnt about how it works.

Another fan of celery, Dr. James Duke PhD, the author of "The Green Pharmacy," developed gout and tried Allopurinol. Then he swapped Allopurinol for celery seed extract. He reported celery seed extract maintained his uric acid level below that which can often cure gout, and that he had not had a gout attack since he began taking celery seed extract. The interesting thing is that he was able to discontinue Allopurinol, and that he said a human, as well as rats, can at least maintain lower uric acid levels from celery.

So there it is. Two experts have endorsed celery and two small studies showed promising results. Celery can be beneficial for gout, reduce blood pressure and alleviate pain. Unwanted side effects were not found in the studies. And the research learnt that pain often returned when celery seed extract was discontinued. So if it does work for you, you may need to take it for a long time, perhaps a lifetime.

How much and in what form?

Four to eight fresh celery stalks daily. They are fresher if they are not limp. The 3nB is in the stalks, not the leaves. Celery goes well with cheddar cheese, which is a low purine food that doesn’t add much uric acid — all foods contain purines to some extent. Juices made from four to eight stalks will also give you the 3nB. Celery can be put in stews which are a good gout meal since they increase your daily water intake as providing the stew’s constituents are low or medium purine level foods — note that clam chowder is high purine.

Dietary supplements

Purchase celery seed extract standardized to contain 85% 3nB. Tablets or capsules. Twice daily for a total of 150-300mg daily. These are especially useful if you’re bored eating celery every day, and when you travel. The extracts may work better than the stalks.

Caution!

Celery should not be taken if you’re pregnant or lactating. And if you have kidney disease. If you’re eating lots of celery or taking celery dietary supplements don’t spend too much time under the sun.

John Mepham has spent much time researching natural remedies for gout. His best tip for treating gout? Get to, and stay at, your ideal weight, whatever the sacrifices may be. Read more about gout treatments

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Best Herbs For Arthritis Relief

Herbs For Arthritis Relief

Herbs for arthritis relief are readily available. Like synthetic relief counterparts, these natural remedies cannot banish arthritis from your life. They are good options though to help diminish the symptoms of arthritis. When taken correctly, herbs help relieve pain and swelling. Here are some of them.

-Stinging Nettle- This herb has a similar effect as NSAIDs. It reduces inflammation since it has anti inflammatory properties. It also contains boron which is a mineral which is especially recommended for arthritis patients. Nettle leaves can be steamed and eaten to relieve arthritis inflammation.

-Devil’s Claw- Its name is actually derived from the appearance of its fruits that look much like claws. This is a herb found in Africa and is prized for its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to help improve the joint movement of arthritic patients.

-Ginger- This common herb is also good relief for inflammation and pain. The best thing about it is that it apparently has no side effects. Ginger is easily available and can be drunk as tea or eaten mixed with food or dish sauce.

-Celery- This is another common food option that can be used for arthritis. Its use dates back a few centuries ago in Europe. Celery contains potassium and a number of anti-inflammatory compounds. Tea from celery seeds or celery eaten raw can provide good remedy for arthritis.

-Red Pepper- It is common knowledge that red pepper has pain relieving properties. It is therefore considered one of the best herbs for arthritis. As some would already know, it is the capsaicin in red pepper that interferes with how people perceive pain. The substance also causes the generation and release of more endorphins. One other beneficial substance in red pepper is salicylate. Aspirin contains this substance.

-Alfalfa- Arthritis patients receive vitamin and mineral nourishment from alfalfa. This herb is also a diuretic. Alfalfa in tea form is a good supplement for arthritis patients. It is advisable though for arthritis sufferers not to take it in its powder form since it can worsen the symptoms of the condition.

-Angelica- Among the Chinese, the more popular species is the dong quai. Angelica tea can be taken to relieve pain and inflammation.

A couple of other herbs have pain and inflammation reducing components. Those who take herbs seriously and properly can truly attest to the effectiveness of herbs. You should always remember though to always have safety in mind. Some herbs, when taken with some medicines can result in serious and dangerous side effects.

Herbal remedies for arthritis also typically do not have standard measurements. Different sources have different opinions on how much you should take of a remedy. There is always the possibility that you could take the wrong advice resulting in the intake of incorrect amounts.

Herbs for arthritis should be taken with your doctor’s knowledge. This is the best way to be sure that you are not putting yourself in danger.

By: Kaye Fretz

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Do you have rheumatoid arthritis symptom? Learn the best herbs for arthritis.

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