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February 25, 2002
In a recent publication, the Arthritis Foundation named the top “10 Supplements Worth Considering” for alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The following list outlines each of the items chosen by the Arthritis Foundation.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Chondroitin sulfate is a natural component of human cartilage composed of a long chain of specialized polysaccarides (sugars). Chondrointin sulfate provides the structural components of cartilage found in the joints, and it ensures the necessary hydration and material for joint mobility. Since cartilage does not have blood vessels to supply nutrients, chondroitin sulfate serves as the conduit for nutrients to flow through cartilage.
The Arthritis Foundation states chondroitin sulfate is, “worth trying for OA,” and clinical studies from Europe, “show internal use relieves OA symptoms and has few side effects.” They also stress however, that chondroitin is a slow-acting supplement that may take a couple of months or more for effects to become apparent.
Glucosamine Sulfate
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in the human body and has been used world wide to treat osteoarthritis. It helps provide the raw material needed for chondrocytes (cartilage cells) to regenerate cartilage and collagen. Glucosamine enters the joint space and is incorporated into proteoglycans, large structures that attract water to the joint space for lubrication of cartilage during movement.
According to the Arthritis Foundation many European studies report glucosamine sulfate “eases OA pain,” and “may reduce cartilage loss in osteoarthritis of the knee.” Similar to chondroitin, glucosamine is safe with few side effects, but may also take up to two months or more before benefits are seen.
GLA: (Gamma linoleic acid)
GLA is an essential omega-6 fatty acid and is found in black currant oil, borage oil, and evening primrose oil. Healthy GLA levels promote healthy blood pressure, inflammation, and immune response. It is used to ease pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis.
The Arthritis Foundation states, “several human studies show GLA taken internally can ease RA pain and inflammation with few side effects,” and is generally considered safe. However there is not any evidence that indicates topical application of the oil has any substantial effect on RA pain.
Fish Oil
Oils from cold water fish such as salmon and mackerel have been used to treat inflammation, fatigue, and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis. They contain the essential omega-3 fatty acids or “good fats” that are needed for good health and, “several human studies show that the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in fish oil reduce inflammation and pain of rheumatoid arthritis.”
Flaxseed Oil
An oil from the flax plant, this omega-3 fatty acid helps relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis. Although no specific studies on flaxseed oil have been conducted, the oil is recognized as a substantial source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote the body's inflammation response system, and as a result, may improve RA symptoms.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is used to help build bone mass, prevent bone loss, aid in calcium absorption, and hinder the progression of osteoarthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, a large clinical study discovered that osteoarthritis progressed three times faster in patients that had deficient amounts of vitamin D in their diet. Other studies show it decreased the incidence and progression of osteoarthritis of the hip.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that has been used to ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, human studies have reported vitamin E eased OA and RA pain better than placebo. Vitamin E also fights free radicals and protects cell membranes from damage, as well as promotes heart health.
Folic Acid
Folic Acid taken with B vitamins can lower homocysteine levels to promote a healthy cardiovascular system. Folic acid is needed for cell replication and growth, and helps form the building blocks of DNA, the body's genetic information. Rapidly growing tissue and rapidly repaired cells, like red blood cells and immune cells, have a high need for folic acid.
Green Tea: Camellia sinensis
A tea that is steamed and dried, rather than fermented, green tea is used to relieve pain and inflammation. According to the Arthritis Foundation, green tea contains polyphenols, antioxidant compounds believed to reduce inflammation and protect against free radical damage. Green tea supports healthy cholesterol levels and efficient fat metabolism.
DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEA is a human hormone naturally produced in the body to manufacture other hormones like testosterone and estrogen. It is used to relieve pain and fatigue, but should only be taken under a physician’s supervision.
Always remember to consult a physician before taking a new supplement.
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