So powerful for you to share your experience. It helps others in the same situation know that they are not alone. Thanks for being so honest.
Nutritional Recommendations for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Research do not have conclusive evidence to show that particular foods make rheumatoid arthritis symptoms worsen or decrease. Until there are data that supports the benefits of dietary manipulation in rheumatoid arthritis, patients with the condition are encouraged to follow a healthy, balanced diet that promotes a healthy weight. Good nutrition can influence the way a patient feels, how well they respond to treatments, and how they handle the effects of inflammation.
Rheumatoid arthritis is among the chronic diseases that seems more responsive to dietary changes. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis should eat well-balanced, healthy diet that include food groups and nutrients that play a role in tissue resistance and repair. This includes proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Proteins
In chronic inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, the production of certain substances in the body increases resting metabolic rate and protein breakdown. This leaves the patient with the challenge of increasing both calorie and protein intake in order to meet the nutritional requirements of the increased metabolic rate. For this reason, people with rheumatoid arthritis are encouraged to eat more protein than those individuals who do not have the disease. Protein on the anti-inflammatory diet should come from plant based sources as much as possible, with the exception of fish and reduced fat dairy. Whey protein supplements are also a good choice. Good sources of protein include:
Vitamins
People with rheumatoid arthritis may be at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Among the common deficiencies in patients with RA, are folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin B6.
Folic acid
Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9 or folacin. This vitamin plays a significant role in maintaining body function. It is needed for the production and maintenance of new cells. Folate deficiency may lead to anemia and this further leads to fatigue and weakness. Food sources of folic acid include:
Aside from food sources, folic acid is also available as a dietary supplement. folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement.
Read more on [Folic Acid][2]
Vitamin C
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is a water soluble vitamin. The body needs this vitamin for growth and tissue repair. It helps in the formation of collagen, a protein used to make skin, scar tissue, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Vitamin C promotes wound healing, as well as repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth. The body does not have the ability to manufacture Vitamin C. For this reason, it is important to include vitamin C-containing foods in the diet.
Research shows that people who ate the least amount of fruits and vegetables were twice as likely to develop inflammation in the joints compared with those who ate the most. According to the investigators of this study, this may be attributed to the antioxidant properties of vitamin C. Below are some of the food items that are rich in Vitamin C:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a compound that acts like a hormone in the body. It is needed in the metabolism of calcium which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and preventing problems such as osteoporosis. Vitamin D also appears to be an important regulator of immune function. Epidemiologic studies show that patients with rheumatoid arthritis had low serum levels of Vitamin D and its metabolites. Another study that suggests the potential benefits of Vitamin D is published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatism. This research shows that women who got less than 200 international units (IU) of vitamin D in their daily diets were 33% more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than women who got more.
Most people meet their vitamin D needs through sun exposure. Vitamin D is can also found in the following food items:
Read more on Vitamin D
Vitamin B6
s Vitamin B6s a water-soluble vitamin that has three related chemicals, namely: pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. Vitamin B6 carries out a wide variety of functions in the body. It is a component of enzymes that help in protein and fat metabolism. Vitamin B6 is essential for normal brain development and function. It also helps the immune system to work efficiently.
Low levels of vitamin B6 have been linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Based on some studies, people with rheumatoid arthritis may need more vitamin B6 than those who do not have the disease because chronic inflammation may lower B6 levels. Vitamin B6 is found in various food items including:
Omega 3 fatty acids
Foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids may benefit patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Research show that these essential fatty acids help in regulating both acute and chronic inflammation. Some small studies have found that fish oil --one of the food sources of Omega 3-- helps reduce symptoms of RA, including joint pain and morning stiffness. One study suggests that people with rheumatoid arthritis who take fish oil may be able to lower their dose of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Although fish oil can relieve some symptoms, it does not appear to slow the progression of RA. Below are some of the foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids:
http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/document/html/appendixb.htm
Foods & nutrition encyclopedia, Volume 1 by Audrey H. Ensminger
Foundations and clinical applications of nutrition: a nursing approach By Michele Grodner, Sara Long, Sandra DeYoung
. [2]: folate/overview
Natural treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis remains a serious disease with no known cure, but many ways to control its symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated with drugs, but there are still other treatment options available and this includes the use of herbal remedies. Many people prefer the natural approach to treatments, hence the popularity of herbal remedies continue to rise.
Evening primrose oil
The oil extracted from the seed of the evening primrose or Oenothera biennis is rich in an essential fatty acid called linoleic acids. It also contains gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA which has been found to have a number of health benefits including relief from the discomforts caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Evening primrose is a biennial plant native to North America, it is also being cultivated in temperate countries. Native Americans used the boiled root, and leaf poultices of the evening primrose plant for treating bruises and hemorrhoids. Today, the oil extracted from evening primrose is commercially available as an oil or capsule. It widely used as a dietary supplement and claims to provide the body with essential fatty acids which play a role in many bodily functions.
Uses
Evening primrose oil is used as a natural treatment for many health conditions including:
How it works
The seeds of evening primrose contain up to 25% essential fatty acids including linoleic acid (LA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Essential fatty acids carry out many important roles, GLA is a precursor of prostaglandin E1 which help inhibit or reduce inflammation, platelet aggregation, thrombosis, cholesterol synthesis, blood vessel tone, and the formation of abnormal cells.
Evidence on how it works
Several studies suggest that evening primrose helps relieve joint pain, tenderness, and swelling that may occur with rheumatoid arthritis. One of these was a study done by scientists from the University of Pensylvania in which 37 patients took part. The participants were given either GLA or placebo. After 6 months of treatment, the GLA group reported 36% fewer tender joints, they also had 45% less joint pain. The placebo group, on the other hand did not experience improvement of symptoms.
In one British study, 40 people were given either evening primrose oil or placebo as an addition to their routine drug regimen. After 6 months the people who were given evening primrose oil reported significant improvement of symptoms, while the placebo group had no change in their symptoms.
How to use
Evening primrose oil must be taken by mouth as directed. Check all directions on the product package. In case you're uncertain of any information, ask your doctor or a pharmacist. The usual adult dose for EPO capsule which is standardized to contain 8%GLA is 2 - 8 grams daily. Some patients may need higher dosages, ask your health care provider for the appropriate dose for your condition
Precautions
Evening primrose oil should not be taken by patients who have allergies to its components. If any of the conditions below applies to you, do not take evening primrose without the advice of a doctor:
Talk to your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant during the treatment. It is not known whether evening primrose could pass into breast milk or if it is harmful for a nursing baby. If you are breastfeeding, ask your doctor before using evening primrose.
Side effects
Evening primrose oil is generally well tolerated when taken in recommended dosages. Incidence of side effects is low. The reported side effects that occur with evening primrose oil use include:
nausea, headache, indigestion, stomach pain, and soft stools. Stomach discomfort and loose stools may be indications that the dosage is too high. If any of the side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.
More about [Rheumatoid Arthritis and Herbs
][1]
References:
Quick access patient information on conditions, herbs & supplements By Integrative Medicine Communications
Medicinal natural products: a biosynthetic approach By Paul M. Dewick
http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.aspx?ID=1856
drugs.com
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Although there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are many ways to control the disease and prevent irreversible complications. The goals of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aim toward:
Early intervention has been shown to considerably decrease a patient's risk of suffering from the debilitating complications of rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment options include medications, physical and occupational therapy, and surgery.
In the last few years, the shift in strategy toward giving disease-modifying drugs at the early course of the disease and the arrival of new classes of medications have greatly improved the expected treatment outcomes. Many drugs for rheumatoid arthritis have potentially serious side effects. Typically, the medications with the fewest side effects are preferred as the first-line of treatment. As the disease progresses, more aggressive medical treatment might be needed. Below are the classes of drugs used in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These agents are the first-line treatment for most forms of arthritis. NSAIDs are among the commonly prescribed drugs, but some brands are available for over-the-counter use. NSAID's have antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. There are currently 20 NSAIDs of different chemical groups available. The exact way in which NSAID's control inflammation is unknown, however, they seem to affect several physiologic processes including prostaglandin production
Prostaglandin is a naturally-occurring chemical which is released when cells are injured or damaged. It sends messages to trigger inflammation. The nerve endings that sense pain are very sensitive to prostaglandin. When this chemical is released, the nerve endings respond to it by transmitting the pain and injury messages to the brain. Prostaglandins are generally increased in inflammatory conditions. NSAIDs work by blocking the enzyme that produce prostaglandin. Read about [Rheumatoid Arthritis and Aspirin
][1]
Steroids.Corticosteroids are naturaly-occuring substances produced by the adrenal glands. Corticosteroid medications have potent anti-inflammatory properties, and are used in a wide range of conditions including arthritis and allergies. They are available in many preparations including tablets, capsules, liquids, topical creams and gels, inhalers, eye drops, as well as injectable and intravenous solutions. For treating rheumatoid arthritis, corticisteroids may be given intraarticularly or systemically. Corticosteroids are given for the rapid relief of acute RA symptoms, but they are also used as temporary adjunctive therapy while waiting for DMARDs to take effect. To reduce the risk of side effects, corticosteroids are typically prescribed in low doses or for short periods. Read about Rheumatoid Arthritis and Prednisone
Disease Modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs (DMARDS). These drugs are considered as the second line of defense in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs seem to work by preventing the immune cells from attacking the connective tissues. DMARD have been shown to improve radiographic outcomes, the effect of these agents is different and its onset may be more delayed than either NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Read about Rheumatoid Arthritis and Methotrexate
References:
drugs.com
Conquering Rheumatoid Arthritis - An Illustrated Guide to Understanding the Treatment and Control of Rheumatoid Arthritis - William Bensen, Wynn Bensen, Martin Atkinson
Progress In Drug Research, Volume 49 Ernst Jucker
The Everything Health Guide to Arthritis By Carol Eustice
http://ard.bmj.com/content/68/7/1094
Principles of ambulatory medicine By Nicholas H. Fiebach, Lee Randol Barker, John Russell Burton, Philip D. Zieve
http://www.healthcentral.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/c/53/5871/dirty/
The chemotherapy source book By Michael Clinton Perry
Although there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are many ways to control the disease and prevent irreversible complications. The goals of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aim toward:
Early intervention has been shown to considerably decrease a patient's risk of suffering from the debilitating complications of rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment options include medications, physical and occupational therapy, and surgery.
In the last few years, the shift in strategy toward giving disease-modifying drugs at the early course of the disease and the arrival of new classes of medications have greatly improved the expected treatment outcomes. Many drugs for rheumatoid arthritis have potentially serious side effects. Typically, the medications with the fewest side effects are preferred as the first-line of treatment. As the disease progresses, more aggressive medical treatment might be needed. Below are the classes of drugs used in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psychological Health
Rheumatoid arthritis causes more than joint pain and limited mobility. It can also significantly affect a person's psychological well being. One of the common problems experienced by patients with chronic pain is depression.
A study shows that patients with rheumatoid arthritis are twice as likely to experience depression, but chances are, they don't talk to their doctors about it. Investigators of this study also found out that only one in five of the patients with arthritis and depression discussed it with their rheumatologists. According to the lead author, the patients do not talk to their doctors about depression because their arthritis is understandably the main focus.
Depression is a problem that should not be ignored because it may affect one's daily functioning and overall quality of life. If you experience depressive symptoms, don't hesitate to discuss it with your doctor. It is important to identify what has been contributing to your depression so that psychological therapy can be tailored to help you to cope with these stressors.
There are a variety of treatment options for depression and overcoming this health challenge is achievable. In addition to medications and psychological treatment, there are many things you can do that may help when you are feeling depressed. Below are some suggestions that you might consider
Outdoor exercise. Research shows that having some sort of contact with nature improves a person's mood and makes them feel less stressed. It was found that activities like walking in a park-like setting was more beneficial for mood and self-esteem compared to walking in a shopping center.
More on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise
More on Depression and Exercise
Keep a journal. Writing down your feelings is among the best self-help techniques. It can be a good way to learn more about your thoughts, and it allows you to think about alternative solutions to your problems.
Take time out to relax. High level of stress and lack of relaxation can develop negative thinking that can later on lead to depression. People who neglect themselves become easily overwhelmed by different events happening in their life. This is the reason why people should learn to let go once in a while so they can handle their hectic lives again. It is a good idea to take some time off to engage in activities that you enjoy. Relaxation can help you cope with stress. If you get to relax periodically, you will fee refreshed you will be able to face the world with confidence and this helps you fight off depression.
References:
http://www.hopkins-arthritis.org/patient-corner/disease-management/depression.html
Oxford textbook of rheumatology By David Alan Isenberg, Peter Maddison, Patricia Woo
http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=89.586
There is no cure known cure for RA, but with early diagnosis and right treatment, you can take control of your disease and avoid permanent damage to your joints. People with rheumatoid arthritis usually need lifelong treatment. In addition to medication, rheumatoid arthritis can be effectively controlled with physical therapy and regular exercise.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Physical Therapy
There is no cure known cure for RA, but with early diagnosis and right treatment, you can take control of your disease and avoid permanent damage to your joints. People with rheumatoid arthritis usually need lifelong treatment. In addition to medication, Physical trapy can effectively relieve yoheumatr inflamoidi n anrtjoint pain. It involves ite use of technsques that helps s cmulate muacles, bones,n rheumatoid arthritis can be effectively controlled with physical therapy helps you gain the strength you need to deal with the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, it promotes better range of motion and flexibility. and regular exercise.
There is no cure known cure for RA, but with early diagnosis and right treatment, you can take control of your disease and avoid permanent damage to your joints. People with rheumatoid arthritis usually need lifelong treatment. In addition to medication, rheumatoid arthritis can be effectively controlled with physical therapy and regular exercise.
There is no cure known cure for RA, but with early diagnosis and right treatment, you can take control of your disease and avoid permanent damage to your joints. People with rheumatoid arthritis usually need lifelong treatment. In addition to medication, rheumatoid arthritis can be effectively controlled with physical therapy and regular exercise.
