Tendinitis is a condition that is characterized by inflammation of tendons and ligaments, which are the connective tissues of your joints. This condition can be caused by falls, repetitive movements, sports activity or heavy lifting. Tendinitis can produce symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Excess body weight may also contribute to this condition. Certain vitamins may help reduce the symptoms of tendinitis.
Pyridoxine
Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6, may help reduce the symptoms of tendinitis. This vitamin aids in the absorption of carbohydrates and fats from food sources, which are necessary for cellular repair of tendons and ligaments, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Pyridoxine also helps maintain nervous system function, which may reduce pain impulses to your brain. Sunflower seeds, brown rice, poultry, spinach, potatoes and avocados are abundant sources of pyridoxine.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential vitamin for reducing muscle and connective tissue inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may help reduce swelling, stiffness and pain associated with tendinitis. Vitamin E is also necessary for the repair of connective tissue cells, which may speed the healing of this condition. Boost your intake of vitamin E by consuming foods such as vegetable oil, eggs, sweet potatoes, tofu, alfalfa, flax seeds and kale.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may help prevent damage to your ligaments and tendons caused by free radical molecules in your bloodstream. It enhances immune system function, which may help prevent bacteria and viruses from attacking connective tissue cells, according to Balch. Vitamin C also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Consume foods such as radishes, apples, kiwi fruit, oranges, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli and Brussels sprouts to increase your vitamin C intake.
Vitamin A
Like vitamin C, vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that may help prevent free-radical damage to your joints and connective tissues. It also helps enhance immune system function to prevent micro-organisms from damaging ligaments and tendons, according to Balch. Vitamin A is essential for the repair of connective tissues and may expedite the healing of tendinitis. Cayenne peppers, garlic, fish liver oil, collard greens, pumpkin and carrots are rich sources of natural vitamin A.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tendinitis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
