May 3, 2011

How to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis with Vitamins

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the joints. Its specific causes are unknown and symptoms develop gradually so that it is difficult to determine when it had started. Many people have symptoms that are present continuously, some have symptoms that completely resolve, and others have alternating periods of symptoms and complete resolution. The severity of symptoms of this condition can vary from person to person.
Treatment plays a key role in controlling the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and minimizing joint damage and usually entails a combination of drug therapy, exercise and a proper diet. Treatment should be individually tailored to each patient's needs and vitamin supplements should play a part in it..
The most commonly deficient vitamins for people dealing with rheumatoid arthritis are vitamin C, B6, folate (vitamin B9), vitamin D, vitamin B12 and vitamin E. Folic Acid/Vitamin B9 is not stored in the body so it is important to get a daily dose.  Folate deficiency can cause anemia, weight loss, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Folic acid can be found in vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, spinach and turnips and greens. 

Vitamin C is necessary for growth and repair of tissues and is important for the formation of collagen, an important protein used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Vitamin C is essential for healing wounds, and for healthy cartilage, bones, and teeth.

Vitamin B6 is important for the nervous system and regulates the production of serotonin, melatonin and epinephrine. It is also able to remove sulfur from other molecules and helps to maintain hormone balance and the elimination of toxic substances. Vitamin B6 plays a key role in the formation of new cells.

Vitamin D is found in dietary sources such as fish, eggs, fortified milk, and cod liver oil. The most important function of Vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which protect cells from free radicals. Vitamin E is important for healthy immune function and is found in avocados, egg yolk, nuts, wheat germ, whole grains, and peanut butter.

Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin. It is found in shellfish, fish, meat and dairy products. Vitamin B12 helps to maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is necessary for the making of DNA.  

For optimum health and increased flexibility, discuss an eating plan with a nutritionist and consult your doctor for the right dosage of vitamins. Increase your Omega 3 fatty acid intake such as salmon, avocado, avocado oil, walnuts, soy bean, soy bean milk, and avoid refined foods, fizzy drinks, tea and coffee, fried or grilled meat. You should start to feel better in a few weeks. This is not an overnight cure; you will have to care for your bones and joints forever.