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Arthritis
Originally published in Natural Living Magazine Volume 2 - Issue 3Arthritis usually results in inflammation and soreness of joints. It has been suggested that arthritis may be caused by factors such as a malfunctioning immune system, allergies to certain foods, poor elimination, excess wear and tear (joint trauma), glandular-chemical-dietary deficiencies, inadequate digestion, and psychological factors. Arthritis, which has a multitude of forms, is difficult to treat due to the above complex causes and origins. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis comprise the major types. Osteoarthritis (OA) is gradual with progressive pain and joint enlargement, it may involve single or multiple joints. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is abrupt or insidious which involves thickening of the synovial membranes accompanied with inflammation, redness and tenderness of joints. Joints are affected symmetrically with migration from joint to joint and usually involve deformity with contracture, along with subcutaneous nodules. Other types include gouty arthritis (swelling and painful large joints), spondyloarthropathies (eg. ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter’s) and infectious arthritis.
Diet and weight reduction will result in improvement. Less meat is important since it contains twenty to fifty times more Phosphorus than Calcium. This leads to stimulation of the parathyroid glands which are responsible for the mobilization of Calcium from bones. The result is Calcium deposits around the joints. Refined carbohydrates like sugar, sweets, pop, etc. should be eliminated since they cause mineral and vitamin deficiencies.
Another group of foods to eliminate include the nightshade plants: tomatoes, white potatoes, peppers (except black pepper), tobacco, and eggplant.
Studies show solanine is a substance found in nightshade plants and if it is not eliminated, it can result in increased toxicity. This usually results in “flare-ups.” Other foods to eliminate include citrus, dairy products, alcohol, salt, fried junk foods, and wheat. The following foods found to be beneficial include: green vegetables, celery, okra, parsley, carrots, spirulina, bananas, pecans, wheat grass, garlic, onions, soy products, wheat germ, kelp, kale, and millet.
If one is not living a healthy lifestyle with adequate exercise, a positive attitude and a balanced diet, one can consider supplements like Sangster’s ARTH Formula. ARTH Formula contains Glucosamine which not only stimulates cartilage components, it also helps to repair cartilage. Devil’s Claw, which contains harpagosides (active ingredient), has anti-inflammatory properties which helps reduce inflammation and pain. Other herbs include Burdock, Dandelion, Red Clover and Yucca all act as blood purifiers. Cayenne, which contains apsaicine and capsaicin, is excellent for improving circulation, thereby increasing blood flow to the joints.
Hydrangea, due to its essential oil component, along with hydrangin, acts as a diuretic and helps in the reduction of swollen joints. Black Cohosh, due to its triterpenes, oleic acid and pantothenic acid components, is essential for increasing circulation as well as decreasing aches and pain. Valerian Root was also added because of its sedative effects along with reducing pain and spasms. The above effects are due to high contents of valeric acid, valerine magnesium and essential oils. Together with Wormwood, Black Walnut Leaves, Brigham Tea and Sarsaparilla Root, ARTH formula addresses the total individual.
In addition, supplementing with a good Multi Vitamin, B-Complex vitamins, Calcium, Magnesium, MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate and Essential Fatty Acids along with proper dietary management, will gradually help establish equilibrium.
Based on my personal experience as a naturopathic doctor, any disease which is painful and disabling needs to be treated from a holistic perspective. There is no quick cure and no miracle diets for degenerative diseases. Dealing with the causative factors and assessing each individual takes time and encouragement. These are the initial steps towards attaining true healing along with the person’s desire and commitment for optimum wellness. Exercise is imperative for treating as well as preventing stiff joints. One can be encouraged to do breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, swimming, and tai chi. In addition, good posture can reduce certain stress placed upon joints.
By Dr. Elvis Ali ND
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