Originally published December 13 2005
Advice for arthritis sufferers includes exercise and diet tips
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Dietitian Pamela Stuppy suggests that those dealing with arthritis pain should consider eating oily fish and olive oil, which has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Because of the concern for negative side effects from many of the pain medications used for arthritis, many people are seeking other ways to manage their symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects about 2 million Americans.
With this form, the body begins attacking its own bone tissue, which causes inflammation and pain.
Since extra body weight puts additional stress on already painful joints, weight loss can be a good goal for overweight individuals (in addition to all the other health benefits it provides).
Losing one pound of weight reduces the load on your knees by four pounds.
Being at a healthier body weight can also reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the first place.
Range of motion exercises keeps joints more flexible and allows for continued exercise.
A lack of regular exercise can almost guarantee decreases in joint function and increased pain.
Specifically, fish oils have been shown to decrease joint pain and stiffness, delay fatigue, and improve overall mobility.
Higher levels of these can be consumed by eating fish or by taking supplements.
Some other sources include ground flax seed/flax seed oil, canola oil and walnuts.
A diet high in omega-6 fatty acids can increase inflammation, so decrease your intake of the fats found in animal products and many processed foods.
Previous studies had shown a benefit to people following a Mediterranean diet - high in fruits, vegetables, beans, olive oil, whole grains and fish, with limited amounts of saturated fats (animal-based fats).
Some researches found that a diet high in colorful fruits and vegetables (red, orange, and yellow) - which contain carotenoids and zeaxanthin - were less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin C is another important nutrient in the arthritis picture.
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