Arthritis pain is one of the most common sources of pain. It affects any “wear and tear” joint, such as knees, hips, back, neck shoulders, fingers and toes. Arthritis is considered a dis-ease of aging. However, it affects every age group when the joint and cartilage break down from joint stress, diet and nutritional deficiencies. Anti-inflammatory and NSAIDS are used for treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks the joints, resulting in swollen, deformed joints, subcutaneous & nodules, joint erosion and a serum RA factor. Rheumatoid arthritis affects any joint at any age. There are several types of rheumatoid arthritis, including systemic lupus, treated by prednisone and much stronger drugs with many side effects. Long-term antibiotic therapy is often a treatment due to an unknown underlying infection. Gout is another form of rheumatoid arthritis often successfully treated by diet.

One of every four Americans may be suffering from arthritis. Dietary changes can prevent and reduce symptoms substantially. Beef is eaten only once or twice weekly, replaced with fish or fish oil capsules. Fish oil capsule sources must be researched to determine if they are free of mercury. Borage oil decreases swollen joints. Results may occur within eight months. Suggested dosages are 2000 mg daily of fish oil and 1400 mg daily of borage oil. Flaxseed oil also reduces inflammation. Dosage is 3000 mg daily. All of the oils, also known as essential fatty acids, are best taken with meals in divided doses.

Raw pineapple contains bromelain. Eaten raw it also reduces inflammation and swollen joints. A slice can be eaten with a small amount of food or in-between meals. Discontinue if your mouth swells or you experience abdominal pain. Pineapple is too acidic for some people, especially those who have esophageal reflux. Bromelain is available in tablet form. However it is chemically produced and I do not recommend it.

Processed food, high sugar and refined flour intake also increase inflammation. It also stimulates insulin resistance, resulting in Type II Diabetes. Margarine, trans and saturated fats, shortening and grain-fed beef provoke inflammatory processes in the body. Unhealthy fats are best replaced with extra virgin olive oil. It actually can lower inflammatory cytokine levels. Pay the extra money and buy this highest quality olive oil. A detailed description of how olive oil is produced is available in Mother Nature's Herbal.

A healthy diet includes grass-fed beef and poultry, fish, and whole grains in moderation. Nuts and seeds may be included if irritable and/or inflammatory bowel is not present. Sauté vegetables in olive oil and avoid fried foods. Eating mercury-free fish a few times weekly can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis 20 to 40%. A healthy diet is described in detail in Slice of Life Nutrition and Dietary Manual, including information to obtain optimal nutrition through diet.

Exercise can also help reduce and prevent arthritic pain and swelling. Moderate amounts of regular low intensity exercise in a pool or with a physical therapist will increase resistance to disease.

There are several topical products that reduce inflammation and increase circulation. No more Pain Lotion massaged on the affected area two to three times daily is most helpful. Small areas, like fingers and toes, are helped most-by No Pain Aromablend massaged onto the joints or back of the knees 3 times daily. The Pain Management Lotion alleviates painful stiff joints assuring long lasting relief. Circulation Booster lotion aids rheumatoid arthritis symptoms alternated with the No more Pain Lotion. Strengthen the Back is a sweet almond oil blend used for the lumbar, low back and hip area. It also supports muscular strength for those with chronic low back and arthritic pain. Manage Pain therapeutic blend reduces chemicals produced from pain, stress, trauma and emotional feelings associated with pain. It works synergistically with the pain lotions and aromablend.