All-Natural Treatments for Arthritis

Many prescription medications available have side effects that, while not as harmful as the conditions they are treating, are unpleasant enough for patients to consider alternative forms of treatment. Given the healthy lives that many people lived for generations before the advent of patent medicines, it makes sense to look at natural treatments for conditions such as chronic and long lasting as arthritis. There are several all-natural ideas to consider as a part of your treatment plan, if you suffer from it.

Carotenoids. Beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids that can help combat the process that leads to arthritis. Carotenoids give many fruits and vegetables their color – particularly dark green, orange, red and yellow vegetables (carrots, tomatoes and pumpkins would be three common examples).

One study that examined the role of these nutrients in combating arthritis involved 25,000 participants over eight years. Those who developed arthritis took in significantly less of the two carotenoids in their diet, and those in the top third, as far as nutrient consumption, were at less risk of inflammatory arthritis than those in the bottom third.

Beta-cryptoxanthin turns into Vitamin A in the body, and commonly appears in orange and yellow vegetables and fruits. Winter squash, pumpkins and peppers are the vegetables with the highest concentration, and tangerines, persimmons and papayas are the fruits with the most beta-cryptoxanthin.

Zeaxanthin is high in antioxidant properties and also appears in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, as well as leafy, green vegetables.
Natural Supplements. There are many supplements in the market that are packaged with promises of arthritis relief (if not a cure). Here is a listing of some, with an overview of their overall reception.

• CMO (Cetyl-M) – This fatty acid has received much marketing as a cure for just about every type of arthritis. At this time, though, there is no scientific basis for any claim that this supplement effectively treats symptoms, let alone cures the condition.
• Calcium – There are two schools of thought – that too much calcium leads to bone buildup that causes arthritis, and that too little calcium weakens bones, leading to elevated risk of arthritis. An overview of the research indicates that moderation is warranted here. 1,200 mg is the recommended adult dosage; keeping to that level will keep your bones healthy, whether you get calcium from food or supplements, or both.
• Glucosamine – Because glucosamine stimulates the production of healthy cartilage and connective tissue, and because the side effects have proven minimal, this is a supplement with promise for arthritis sufferers.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These have not been connected with a cure for arthritis, but they have been proven to reduce inflammation and ease pain – both of which are good news if you have arthritis.

Exercise. No matter what your condition, if you don’t exercise regularly, your joints will not stay healthy, and the muscles around them will atrophy over time. The wastes that build up in your cartilage will stay there, instead of flushing out into the bloodstream. Arthritis patients need exercise to improve their range of motion and to keep their muscles strong. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may want to add endurance exercise as well.

Even natural treatments and substances come with risks. Before you begin an exercise program, or begin taking supplements, talk to your physician to make sure that the plan you have in mind will give you the benefits you want. Arthritis is a long-term, chronic condition that can frustrate people who suffer from it. Now, there aren’t any quick cures; even the best supplements and programs will take time to show results. Don’t let frustration motivate you to make decisions that could hurt your body over the long term.

As with any dietary supplements, it is suggested that you consult with your physician before beginning an extended regimen.

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