According to Arthritis Research UK around ten million people, of all ages in the UK have arthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns recommends three supplements that can help ease the symptoms linked to the condition.
Cassandra explains, “Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition where there is inflammation in the joints – usually multiple joints throughout the body. The inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and damage to the joints, and can eventually result in disability. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is not related to ‘wear and tear; it’s an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks our own joint tissues”.
Cassandra’s top 3 supplements to aid arthritis…
- Vitamin K2:
Cassandra tells us, “we know that vitamin K2 is important for bone health – it helps bind calcium into our bones. But it’s also been found that the menaquinone-7 (MK-7) form of K2 could have anti-inflammatory properties and help those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis. In a study on 84 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, those taking 100 micrograms a day of MK-7 for three months had reduced inflammation and disease activity in their joints compared to those not taking it**.
“So, vitamin K2 as MK-7 could be a good supplement choice for those with rheumatoid arthritis – either as part of a wider nutrition and supplement program or in addition to their medication (with the agreement of their doctor). For those wishing to try a supplement, I recommend Nature’s Plus Source of Life Garden Vitamin K2 £13.95, from naturesplus.co.uk. It contains K2 as MK-7 at a dosage of 120 micrograms – very similar to the dose used in the clinical trial.”
- Vitamin D
Cassandra says “Keeping vitamin D levels up is important for those with rheumatoid arthritis – and could even help prevent it happening in the first place! The main reason is that vitamin D is essential for a healthy and balanced immune system: this means not only protecting us efficiently against infections but also not reacting against the body’s own tissues – as in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. So, during winter – or at any time of year, for those who don’t get much sunlight on their skin – I’d suggest taking a vitamin D supplement providing 1000 to 2000 IU of vitamin D daily. Or, if possible, get your vitamin D level tested by your doctor to see if you need to take a higher dose. Try Vitamin D3 1000 IU from qnutrapharma.com £7.09”.
- Curcumin
The turmeric root in curcumin has proven anti-inflammatory properties. This works well for anyone suffering from joint pain and can be a way to ease the pain of rheumatoid arthritis. Cassandra Barns explains, “Curcumin, a constituent of turmeric, is thought to be responsible for most of this spice’s health benefits. In supplements, it can be concentrated to a much higher percentage than is naturally found in turmeric powder: often 95%, compared to only around 2 or 3% in pure turmeric. Taking a curcumin supplement such as Nature’s Plus Source of Life Garden Curcumin £31.75 from naturesplus.co.uk can give you as much curcumin as several teaspoons of turmeric powder! It’s a convenient and easy way to get your daily dose without having to remember to use turmeric in your food every day. I love the fact that this supplement is certified organic too, so you know you’re getting a good-quality product.”
So if you’re suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, then combining these supplements with a healthy balanced lifestyle could help to ease the pain and stiffness in your joints.
References:
*http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/arthritis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
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