1. Arthritis Comes in More Than One Flavor
The supplement you choose for treating arthritis symptoms depends on the type of arthritis you're treating. The most common are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Other familiar types are fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, often just called lupus.
2. Supplements to Take for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that attacks the joints and can also affect internal organs. It can be challenging to sort through the claims made about the effectiveness of nutritional supplements and to know when to try them. Some well-known recommended supplements are calcium, folic acid, vitamin E, zinc and selenium. Other supplements that have shown promise for treating or relieving the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include bromelain, ginger, Thunder god vine, turmeric and GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid found in black currant oil, borage oil and evening primrose oil. Some types of fish oil, a popular supplement with anti-inflammatory properties, might relieve joint tenderness, but don't reduce joint damage.
3. Supplements to Take for Osteoarthritis
Probably the most well-known supplements for treating osteoarthritis are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Studies indicate that glucosamine provides some relief in those experiencing moderate-to-severe pain from osteoarthritis, though it doesn't stop or reverse joint damage.
Glucosamine is derived from crab shells, so don't use it if you have an allergy to shellfish. Other supplements, such as chondroitin sulfate, may interact with warfarin or other blood thinners. Other supplements you might try are ASU, bromelain, Cat's claw, Devil's claw, ginger, MSM, SAM-e, stinging nettle and turmeric, all of which have shown some potential in treating osteoarthritis symptoms.
4. Supplements to Take for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
If your child has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, your biggest challenge may be getting her to eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly and stick with her prescribed medications. The only two supplements recommended by the Arthritis Foundation are calcium and vitamin D to promote healthy bones.
5. Some Caveats About Taking Supplements
Some supplements recommended for arthritis sufferers address pain, others may alleviate inflammation, but there is still no cure for any form of arthritis. Some dietary supplements interact with prescription medications, so tell your M.D. what you are taking. Nutritional supplements aren't regulated, which may mean that few or no studies have been done to verify their efficacy. Do your homework to be sure the supplement you're purchasing will safely address your particular type of arthritis. Dietary supplements are also available from a variety of sources, both in your local store and via the Internet; likewise, the manufacturing process varies. Again, research the origins of your purchase to be sure that what you are getting is safe and dosages are correct. We might think of dietary supplements as natural and therefore naturally safe, but many are quite potent and could have harmful side effects. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist, and study the possible drawbacks. If you do decide to use a supplement, take only the recommended dosage.
