Your Natural Alternatives -

ARTHRITIS

The basic characteristics of Arthritis are swollen, painful joints in fingers, hands, feet, spine -- all over the body.
However, there are different forms of Arthritis with varying differences in characteristics. Here is a brief description of each:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Most common form of Arthritis, often thought of as a precursor to aging because it develops slowly over time. Starts out as twinges in a joint, progresses to stiffness, soreness and inflammation and appears full blown with enlarged, painful and mishapen joints. OA causes damage to the cartilage that covers the bone ends. It is a degenerative disease that can be caused by injury and/or wear and tear on the joint.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Affects both old and young, but more common in young adults. RA progresses from joint stiffness upon awakening, to swelling in a joint, to swelling in the soft tissue surrounding an affected joint. Sometimes accompanied by low grade fever and general malaise. This is an inflammatory disease of the immune system which can progress to a crippling degree.
Systemic Lupus
Affects mostly women usually between the ages of 18 to 50. Lupus is a disease affecting the immune system. Systemic Lupus may run thru the system affecting many different organs including the skin, blood vessels, joints and major organs, as well. Sore, swollen joints are often apparent with cartilage damage, as in OA.

Alternative Treatments
Glucosamine/Chondroitin are essential for healthy joints - because they promote the formation of healthy cartilage, bones, tendons and ligaments. They work synergistically to maintain joint lubrication.
Alfalfa contains all the minerals essential for bone formation and as such, is very helpful for arthritis sufferers. And, it is a good source of Vitamin K, which helps "deposit minerals into the bone matrix" (quoting from Dr. James Balch!).
Vitamin C is a powerful free radical destroyer. Free Radicals are the cause of cell destruction.
Another suggestion is Bromelain, found fresh in pineapple .. Bromelain is an enzyme that helps reduce pain and inflammation.
MSM ... dietary sulfur is known to help arthritis pain and inflammation.
Chicken Collagen, Shark Cartilage and Bovine Cartilage have been helpful in improving joint mobility, improving pain and reducing inflammation.
Calcium/Magnesium/Zinc synergistically work together to strengthen bone mass and improve bone growth.
Silica is important for connective tissue and bone growth.
Essential Fatty Acids, such as Evening Primrose Oil, Borage Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Salmon Oil, Fish Oils, Sunflower Oil all are helpful in increasing the production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins to control arthritis pain.
Antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, Beta Carotene, Selenium, OPC's (Grape Seed Extract, Pycnogenol, Pine Bark Extract, Red Wine Extract), Vitamin A, Vitamin C (mentioned above), Germanium, Citrus Bioflavonoids and Alpha Lipoic Acid, are powerful free radical flushers. Free radicals are known cell destroyers.
Free Form Amino Acids help to supply needed protein for repair of damaged tissue.
Vitamin B Complex, 100 mg per day, is essential for proper tissue repair.

Links For Specialized Help
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Society
Arthritis Insight
Lupus Society

Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescription medications. The information and statements contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any dis-ease.

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