Arthritis
Arthritis
What Is It?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the joints which is a gel like substance begins to disappear, this shock absorbing material helps to prevent bones from touching each other. Rheumatoid arthritis on the other hand is a chronic disorder in which the cartilage and other tissues around the bones become inflamed and damaged.
What causes Osteoarthritis?
If the body can no longer repair the cartilage within the body due to old age or other factors then this can lead to osteoarthritis. It may also be caused by excess weight and the result of wear and tear on the bones through everyday living as people get older. Most commonly the fingers, knees, hips, neck and spine are affected.
What causes Rheumatoid Arthritis
In some people this condition is hereditary – The immune system actually starts to fail as it begins to attack its own joints and associated tissues (the autoimmune reaction)
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis
Osteoarthritis - usually starts as mild Joint Pain, stiffness & is usually very gradual
Rheumatoid Arthristis – Starts with a feeling of fatigue, weight loss, low fever & joint stiffness. It is then followed by red and painful swollen joints such as the wrists, fingers, knees, ankles & feet that may feel warm
Recommended Supplements
These Supplements can be taken safely over a long period of time for both types of arthritis
- Vitamin C - 120mg a day
- Vitamin E
- Zinc - 50mg a day
- Glucosamine - 500mg a day
- Fish Oils – Omega 3 Oil – 100mg a day
- Chilli ointment – apply to joints several times a day
How do these Supplements help directly
- Vitamins C, E and Zinc are antioxidants that can be used for both conditions as they protect cells, including those of the joints, from damage.
- Glucosamine is one of the best supplements available for relieving arthritis pain as it is a sugar building compound. Whether Glucosamine can actually reverse this condition has not been proven, however it does appear to slow down damage to joints over time – the effects can be enhanced if it is taken with any of the recommended supplements listed above.
- Fish Oils may reduce inflammation, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis
What Else Can You Do?
- apply an ice or heat pack to the effected area for 25 minutes 2 or 3 times a day to help reduce the pain
- Take regularly low impact exercise such as walking or swimming to strengthen muscles and improve joint condition.
Did You Know?
That an old wife tale is that wearing a cooper bracelet can help to ease the pain of arthritis especially in the hands and wrists. The skin can absorb some anti-inflammatory mineral in this way, but copper supplements and zinc ensure a steadier supply
Buy the recommended Supplements
Omega 3 Fish Oil
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