Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms and Natural Relief

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms usually begin somewhere between the ages of 30 and 50 with pain, inflammation and stiffness in the joints of the fingers, hands and wrists. The joints may also become swollen, tender and warm to the touch. Loss of appetite, sleep, fatigue and depression are also common symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is related to a breakdown of the immune system and, if not managed, can spread throughout the body causing permanent damage and severely limited range of motion. Therefore, to control the spread of the disease, it’s important to begin immediately to safely manage the pain and inflammation and to naturally strengthen the immune system.

Controversial “painkillers,” like Aleve, Vioxx, Bextra, etc, usually prescribed for RA, neither provide safe, long term pain relief nor strengthen the immune system. However, as more evidence proves diet and lifestyle changes can both help prevent the disease and provide relief of symptoms, a more holistic approach is being taken and more people with RA are living happier, healthier lives.

Though exercise may be the last thing on your mind when experiencing pain, it’s essential for the improved range of motion of strong, healthy bones and muscles. Moderate exercises such as walking, swimming and yoga are excellent ways to stay active with a minimum of stress.

Since excess weight puts so much stress on joints, particularly the hip and knees, it’s also important to reach and maintain a healthy weight by reducing calories, eliminating sweets and keeping fat intake below 30% of calories. And, drink lots of pure, clean water - at least eight glasses a day.

Include more organic whole grains, colorful fruits and vegetables (for immune building carotenoids) and fresh wild fish such as salmon (nature’s richest source of anti-inflammatory omega 3 oils). Also, cut back on red meat. People who eat red meat daily have twice the risk of arthritis than those who eat meat no more twice a week.

Supplements are recommended by the American Medical Association and whole food nutritionals are especially important for people dealing with degenerative arthritis. For the best results with natural whole food supplements, go to www.feel-better.info.

The key to rheumatoid arthritis control and management is basically the same as it is for preventing any and all degenerative diseases. Be healthy and fit by exercising moderately, eating right, taking high quality supplements, avoiding injury and reducing stress, fatigue and depression.

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Note: The information contained on this website is not intended to be prescriptive. Any attempt to diagnose or treat an illness should come under the direction of a physician who is familiar with nutritional therapy.