Description
There are two primary forms of arthritis: osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis involves the degeneration of the lining of the
joints, which results in pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced
mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which
the body's immune system attacks the joint tissue, especially in the
hands and feet, which results in red, swollen, painful joints. Weakness, fatigue, and
weight loss may also be present.
Causes
Osteoarthritis is often associated with injury and "wear
and tear" on the joints.
The exact cause/s of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown,
but may include:
- Food
allergies/sensitivities
- Leaky gut syndrome
- Gut flora imbalance
(dysbiosis)
The idea being that these disorders of the gut may allow
partially digested food particles and/or pathogens and their toxins
to enter the body. From
there, the substances may deposit in the joint tissues, where they
are attacked by the immune system. Alternatively, the
substances may contain proteins that are similar to those found in
joint tissue, and the immune system may in turn mistakenly attack
the joint tissue.
Toxin exposure (e.g., heavy metals) and genetics are also
implicated in rheumatoid
arthritis.
Treatment
Approach
- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that emphasizes
healthy fats, lean protein, whole grains, lots of vegetables, some
fruit, and filtered water.
Vegetarian diets may be especially helpful with rheumatoid
arthritis.
- Identify food sensitivities / allergies with testing
(e.g., RAST, ELISA) and/or an elimination
diet.
- Avoid foods and additives identified as potential
allergens or sensitivities.
- Supplement to help rebuild joint tissue and moderate
inflammation, e.g.:
-
Glucosamine sulfate, MSM
-
Antioxidants
- B
vitamins
-
Minerals
-
Essential fatty acids
-
Enzymes
-
Herbals - e.g., boswellia, curcumin,
ginger
- Avoid future environmental toxin exposure, and reduce
existing toxin levels in the
body.
- Address existing chronic infections (bacterial,
viral, fungal).
