According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 21 million adults in the United States have arthritis. The term "arthritis" means joint inflammation. It encompasses over 100 separate conditions. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone within joints that often accompanies aging. Some dietary supplements may help, but use them under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3-rich fish oil has well-known cardiovascular and mood-boosting benefits, but it also may have utility as a supplement for arthritis. Laboratory research studies suggest that diets plentiful in omega-3 fatty acids may help relieve arthritis symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, one study examined the use of omega-3-rich New Zealand green-lipped mussels in arthritis patients. Joint stiffness and pain, grip strength, and walking pace all improved after treatment with an extract made from the sea creatures. Consult a qualified health care practitioner before adding omega-3 supplements to your daily regimen.
Herbal Supplements
A review by researchers from the Division of Rheumatic Diseases at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine discussed the merits of several herbal supplements used in arthritis. Thunder god vine, a traditional Chinese herb that originated in southern China and Taiwan, helped relieve arthritis symptoms in several preliminary studies. Cat's claw, a traditional Peruvian botanical, decreased pain associated with activities of daily living in a small study of arthritis patients. Green tea, one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide, was shown in animal studies to inhibit the development of arthritis. More research is needed before these herbal supplements can be widely recommended for arthritis patients. Talk to your doctor before treating your condition with herbal remedies.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are both natural substances found in the human body. They are often combined into over-the-counter arthritis supplements. Research studies on glucosamine and chondroitin have yielded contradictory results. Although some studies have found them to be effective in easing arthritis symptoms, a recent large clinical trial sponsored by the National Institutes of Health found that overall, there was no difference between these supplements and placebo. Still, many individual patients report benefit from glucosamine and chondroitin. Ask a qualified health care practitioner if these supplements are right for you.
Vitamins for Arthritis
Several vitamins and minerals may be helpful for arthritis patients, according to Grant Wood, author of "The Arthritis Handbook." Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, was shown in animal studies to impede bone and cartilage destruction. Vitamin A, necessary for skin, bone and joint health, has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Deficiencies in vitamin D, a vitamin synthesized in the body through sun exposure, were correlated with a threefold risk of worsening pain in patients with arthritis of the knee. The use of these vitamins is not an adequate replacement for consultation with a licensed health care practitioner.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Arthritis Basics
- PubMed Central: Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Biological Basis for the Use of Botanicals in Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review
- MayoClinic.com: Osteoarthritis Alternative Medicine
- NCCAM: Questions and Answers: NIH Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial Primary Study
- "The Arthritis Handbook: Improve Your Health and Manage the Pain of Osteoarthritis"; Grant Cooper; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
