Nutritional Supplements Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

Nutritional Supplements are one way of treating Rheumatoid Arthritis; these supplements are intended to provide the body with the right amount of vitamins and minerals that would generally not be provided in the correct quantities in a person’s diet. There are a number of supplements there that can help alleviate the everyday pain, stiffness, and swelling of the tissue and joints. Remember this list is for informational use only; all treatments should be discussed with a doctor or a certified homeopath.

Betaine Hydrochloride – Better known as Stomach Acid, the decline of this acid could lead to inadequate absorption of much needed nutrients such as calcium which helps to build bones, leading Rheumatoid Arthritis to break down joints faster.

Borage Oil – Made from the seeds of the Borage plant, a native of Europe and North Africa, it contains Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) that is altered by the body into a hormone called prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) that works as an anti-inflammatory agent. The body should change the GLA into PGE1 on its own, but in cases where Rheumatoid Arthritis is present it doesn’t always change the proper amount needed. Noted as the richest source of GLA if taken daily for at least 3 months it has been shown to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Boron – Is a non-metallic compound found in our diet and also in our body’s but in small amounts. Good sources include prunes, raisins, nuts, non-citrus fruits, legumes, and vegetables. It has shown to help in the metabolism of important bone building nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, copper, and phosphorus. If your diet is lacking in it your Rheumatoid Arthritis may speed the degeneration of your bones.

Bromelain – An enzyme found in the stem of the pineapple plant, it is an excellent inflammation reliever. Studies have shown that when taken for a set period of time it help to reduce the pain and inflammation of Rheumatoid Arthritis with exceptional results.

Cetyl myristoleate (CMO) – Is a blend of cetyl alcohol and mysristoleic acid that has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is most often found in a cream or lotion form for topical treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Since it is a chemical blend, it is not an essential nutrient needed by the body and shows no nutritional deficiency or value.

DMSO – A bi-product from paper manufacturing. It has shown to alleviate inflammation and pain when used topically by hindering the nerves from sending pain messages, especially in diseases where the connective tissue is affected such as Rheumatoid Arthritis.
D-phenylalanine DPA – While not found in the human body it has been found to be helpful in reducing pain associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis, by helping to increase endorphins in the body which help manage the sensitivity to pain. This is not an essential nutrient needed by the body and shows no nutritional deficiency or value.

Evening Primrose Oil – Derived from the Evening Primrose plant seeds it contains Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) that the body changes into Prostaglandin E1 an anti-inflammatory agent. In cases with Rheumatoid Arthritis the body does not change enough over to help prevent the pain and inflammation.

Fish Oil – Contains both omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid or EPA and DHA which have properties that work to ward off inflammation, and can be found in albacore tuna, anchovies, black cod, herring, mackerel, salmon, and sardines. Omega-3 fatty acids work to balance omega-6 fatty acid and when they don’t balance chemicals in the body are released that induce inflammation associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Green-Lipped Mussel – A shellfish found in the waters off the New Zealand coast, it can come in either as an extract or as a freeze-dried powder. Its primary use is to control the inflammation production within the body. This is not an essential nutrient needed by the body and shows no nutritional deficiency or value.

Propolis – A resin type matter that bees collect from the leaf buds and bark of conifer and poplar trees, it has been can be found as a liquid extract, topical ointment, capsule, and tablet. The topical treatment has shown to greatly relieve the inflammation from Rheumatoid Arthritis. This is not an essential nutrient needed by the body and shows no nutritional deficiency or value.

Selenium – An essential trace mineral found in Brazil nuts, sea food, yeast, and whole grains, it has been used promote a healthy immune system. Studies have shown that deficiencies in this supplement can worsen the pain and inflammation of Rheumatoid Arthritis, since it does have bearing on promoting a proper functioning immune system.

Vitamin E – An antioxidant, found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, wheat germ oil, green leafy vegetables, and egg yolks, protects the membranes of the cells. It is known to have direct influence on the inflammation associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Low levels of this supplement have shown to increase the risk and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.