Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes pain, inflammation and stiffness in the joints. It often leads to severe joint damage and dysfunction. According to the National Library of Medicine, there is no cure. However, medication, lifestyle changes and surgery can relieve pain and slow the disease's progress. Herbs and vitamins may help. Use them under the supervision of a qualified health care provider.
Considerations
According to nutritionist Cheryl Koch of the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, claims that special diets, foods and supplements can cure rheumatoid arthritis or ease its symptoms are mostly unproven. She states that many reports of improvement result from the "placebo effect," where a patient's expectations and beliefs cause symptoms to abate even when the agent used is biologically inactive. Nonetheless, researchers continue to explore the role of nutrition and herbs in rheumatoid arthritis. A qualified health care professional can help you sort out which vitamins and herbs are appropriate for your condition.
Herbs for Rheumatoid Arthritis
In their book "A Woman's Guide to Vitamins, Herbs, and Supplements," authors Deborah Mitchell and Hunter Yost recommend curcumin and boswellia for rheumatoid arthritis. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, a member of the ginger family that gives Indian curries their distinctive yellow color. It has been valued for its anti-inflammatory properties in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries . Boswellia is also an Ayurvedic herb. Possessing both anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties, boswellia is available both in oral and topical formulations. Curcumin and boswellia are not adequate substitutes for medical treatment and advice.
Vitamins for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Koch writes that people with rheumatoid arthritis are prone to deficiencies in vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, folate and vitamin E. Several factors contribute to these vitamin deficiencies. The disease itself causes an increase in the resting metabolic rate, meaning that more food has to be consumed to meet nutritional requirements. Pain and swelling can make food preparation difficult. At the same time, some rheumatoid arthritis medicines interfere with folate absorption. Rheumatoid arthritis medicines may also cause gastrointestinal problems that make eating difficult. Ask a qualified health care provider which vitamins to add to your personal rheumatoid arthritis regimen.
Warning
Nutritional supplements like vitamins and herbs are regulated very differently than pharmaceutical drugs. Pharmaceutical manufacturers are required to prove to the Food and Drug Administration that a prescription drug is safe and effective before it goes to market. In contrast, manufacturers of dietary supplements are responsible for ensuring that a dietary supplement is safe, but no scientific studies need to be submitted to the FDA. The FDA typically only gets involved if complaints are received from the public. "Buyer beware" is good advice with nutritional supplements. Research supplements thoroughly before buying, and use them under the guidance of a qualified health care professional.
References
- MedlinePlus: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Nutrition and Rheumatoid Arthritis
- "A Woman's Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements;" Deborah Mitchell and Hunter Yost; 2008
- Food and Drug Administration: Dietary Supplements
