The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is mainly the
degeneration of the cartilage in the joints. It can also involve the lining
of the joint (synovial lining) and the underlying bone.
The body is in a constant process of building new cartilage as it is wearing
down, which is primarily made up of collagen fibres, glycoproteins and proteoglycans.
As the joint begins to wear down, it causes increased stress to the bone. In response the
bone actually becomes denser (spurs forming around the joint).
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks
itself. This causes inflammation of a joint's connective tissues, such as the synovial
membranes, which leads to the destruction of the cartilage.
CAUSES:
1. Osteoarthritis: is a degenerative joint disease most often the result of aging. It can
also develop because of injury such as bones broken, intense physical activity as in
athletics or a defect in the protein comprising the cartilage.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: is an autoimmune disorder.
a. It may be caused by a viral infection that sets off the immune response in
which the synovial membrane falls under attack.
b. Stress suppresses the immune system increasing pro-inflammatory
cytokines, which create inflammation.
c. Poor nutrition may also contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.
SYMPTOMS:
• Early morning stiffness reduced ability to move joint.
• Mildly swollen joints.
• Joint pain.
• Redness of skin and warmth around joint.
• Fever and weakness.
LIFESTYLE:
Avoid, Strictly Limit, and/or Minimize:
Most common food culprits to eliminate:
* alcohol, caffeine and sugar
* citrus, salt
* red meat, dairy products high in saturated fats
The most commonly observed vitamin and mineral deficiencies in people with RA are:
* folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, folic acid,
* additives, soft drinks
* flour, potatoes
* eggplants, red peppers, tomatoes
Food allergies and abnormal bowel function (i.e. leaky gut) may combine and
result in toxins and undigested proteins to enter the blood stream. The body
produces antibodies to battle these gut derived foreign antigens creating an
inflammatory reaction when the specific food is digested.
These antibodies formed to attack the (leaky gut) toxins also cross-react and
attack joint collagen. calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium.
Use Freely, Emphasize, Maximize
Consume a diet that focuses on whole unprocessed foods.
* Whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. (high in antioxidants)
* Eat lots of fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, etc.)
Exercise:
* reduces joint pain and stiffness, builds strong muscle around the joints, and increases flexibility and endurance.
SUPPLEMENTS
Aloe Ferox:
Fabulous Fibre Bitter: contains aloin, emodin, anthraquinones, saponins, zinc,
selenium and mannose that help to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.
Whole leaf Aloe Juice:
* Improves immune function.
* Stimulates fibroblasts for the growth and repair of synovial membrane.
Omega 3 (3 – 6 capsules per day): improves immune system.
* Helps fight inflammation by producing prostaglandins that down regulates
inflammation.
Joint Support (3 per day):
*Glucosamine Sulfate: is an amino sugar that is the primary building block of
proteoglycans (give cartilage its elasticity). It is selectively incorporated into
joints and improves joint lubrication, protects joints from further damage,
reduces pain and inflammation. It also promotes the incorporation of
sulphur into cartilage.
o Devil’s Claw: improves mobility and physical functioning of joints, reduces
pain and inflammation.
Muscle Gel/Winter Eeze: helps to sooth aching joints and muscles.
Other:
• Vitamin C (500 to 1000 mg 3 times per day): its primary function is the
manufacture of collagen that holds our bodies together (connective tissues,
cartilage, tendons, etc.).
*Vital for wound repair, healthy gums, prevents easy bruising.
* Essential for immune system functioning.
* Important antioxidant.
REFERENCES:
MURRAY, M.T. 1996. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Three Rivers Press:New York.
p. 409-412.
STRAND, R.D. 2002. What your Doctor doesn’t know about Nutritional Medicine may be Killing
you. Thomas Nelson:Nashville.
