Supplements to Improve Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Supplements to Improve Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an inflammatory disease that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and eventual loss of function in the joints. It affects about 1.3 million people in the U.S. and occurs in all races and ethnic groups, reports the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Often beginning in middle age, about two to three times as many women as men have RA. Some supplements may help improve RA symptoms, but talk to your doctor before taking any to ensure they are appropriate for you.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are present in oils from fish and other sea creatures. You can also get omega-3s from fish oil supplements. According to J.M. Kremer, of the Division of Rheumatology at Albany Medical College in New York, in a 2000 article in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," studies suggest that the beneficial effects of omega-3s on RA are usually not apparent until supplements are consumed for 12 weeks or longer. Supplements decrease the release of certain inflammatory mediators, and several investigators report that RA patients can decrease or stop taking certain anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis medications. More studies are still necessary to determine if omega-3s are effective in the treatment of RA. Fish oil can interact with certain medication, so talk to your doctor before taking these supplements.

Calcium and Vitamin D

The John Hopkins Arthritis Center reports that those with RA are at an increased risk of osteoporosis due to lack of certain vitamins in minerals in the diet, as well as from steroid therapy for RA and menopause. Taking calcium supplements with vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium, may decrease your risk of osteoporosis.

Selenium and Vitamin E

Many individuals with RA have some vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The John Hopkins Arthritis Center suggests that increasing your intake of selenium and vitamin E may decrease damage by free radicals to your joints, helping to decrease joint swelling and pain.

Other Vitamins

Those with RA may also be deficient in folic acid, magnesium, zinc and vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, reports the John Hopkins Arthritis Center. Although many experts recommend that food be the primary source of these vitamins and minerals, taking supplements may be necessary to fulfill nutritional needs.

Plant Oils

The Mayo Clinic reports that plant oils containing a certain type of fatty acid may help with rheumatoid arthritis pain and morning stiffness. These oils are present in the seeds of evening primrose, borage and black current. However, some plant oils can interfere with other medications and cause liver damage, so talk to your doctor about whether plant oils are right for you.

Thunder God Vine

Traditional Chinese medicine uses the peeled root of thunder god vine to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The Mayo Clinic reports that some studies indicate that it may be helpful in treating RA. However, taking thunder god vine does have side effects such as diarrhea, menstrual changes and hair loss.

source : livestrong.com