Treat Arthritis Naturally: Supplements and Natural Cures for Osteoarthritis

Arthritis is a very common age related disease; and osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions across the globe. However, eating correctly and taking certain supplements can help slow down the progression of the disease, relieve pain and stiffness and stave of excessive cartilage degeneration.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

OA is a degenerative joint disorder wherein, the joint gradually loses its cartilage. The cartilage is a smooth, shock absorbing substance that prevents the joint surfaces from rubbing against one another. OA commonly affects the knees, hips, spine and fingers and is manifested as: pain and discomfort in the affected joint, stiffness and reduced mobility. In most cases Osteoarthritis also associated with localized edema and swelling. Lower back pain is commonly associated with osteoarthritis especially among elderly individuals.

OA commonly affects
the knee joint

Degenerative Arthritis: What Causes It?

• Aging is an import contributing factor. Osteoarthritis occurs due to years of wear and tear of the joints.
• Along side, genetic factors also come in to play.
• Obesity and excessive weight tend to accelerate the progression of the disease and worsen it.
• Impairment of the body’s ability to repair cartilage also plays a part.
• Trauma or injury to the joint and overuse of the joint are other significant causes.
• Congenital defect in the joint structure could also trigger OA.
• Osteoarthritis is closely associated with menopause and frequently observed in post menopausal women

Osteoarthritis Treatment

Permanent cure for OA does not exist, however, you can alleviate the pain and discomfort appreciably. Also, alterative therapies promise to reduce stiffness in the affected joint, strengthen the muscles supporting the joints and improve the range of movement. OA treatment calls for a multi-disciplinary approach. Dietary supplements, physical therapy and exercises and food prescriptions will provide immense help.

Glucosamine helps in
building cartilage

Osteoarthritis Cures: Supplements for Osteoarthritis

• Glucosamine: glucosamine is a cartilage building agent that has been proved to be excellent in relieving arthritic pain. Glucosamine can slow down joint damage considerably. Glucosamine supplements can be used for a long period of time. Glucosamine sulphate is the preferred form. 500 mg of the supplement is recommended twice daily for a month. After a month asses the condition and consult your physician about the dosage.
• Calcium and vitamin D: calcium and vitamin D are essential to prevent de-mineralization of the bones, which will further aggravate the condition. They can slow down or even halt the progress of osteoarthritis. Calcium and vitamin D manage stiffness and pain appreciably, and are known as vital joint-building nutrients.
• Biotin: Biotin is also considered beneficial in the management of Osteoarthritis. Reports suggest that biotin promotes the growth of cartilage tissue. This can be beneficial in the management of severe degenerative disorder. 
• Vitamin B supplements: vitamin B supplementation is a must. Vitamin B complex help handle tingling and numbness that is occasionally seen with OA. It also manages the discomfort effectively.

Selenium Health Benefits: Selenium Deficiency Treatment Foods

Recent studies have shown that selenium works quickly and stimulates cellular growth and prevents the cells from becoming cancerous. Based on test tube studies, experts have suggested that selenium’s cancer fighting abilities are fast acting and highly beneficial. Selenium, though a trace mineral, has potent anti-oxidant properties and is also beneficial as a anti-aging agent. Selenium is found naturally in various foods and is also beneficial in treating selenium deficiency symptoms

Selenium is an important trace
mineral

What is selenium deficiency? Selenium Deficiency Symptoms

An adult human body needs approximately 50 micrograms of selenium each day for normal functioning. The trace mineral is present in various organs of the body including the kidney, liver, pancreas and spleen.

Some of the common factors responsible for selenium deficiency include gastro-intestinal bypass surgery, impaired colon functioning and Intravenous feeding for prolonged period of time. Excessive consumption of refined and processed foods can also result in the deficiency.

Selenium deficiency can result in several complications which include,

• Extreme tiredness and chronic fatigue
• Hypothyroidism may also develop due to lack of this mineral
• Generalized muscular weakness and body ache are also observed. Selenium deficiency is also associated with joint pain and weakness. 
• Reduced mental functions with poor memory and poor concentration
• Keshan disease can occur due to selenium deficiency which is characterized by impaired cardiac functioning and enlarged heart. The condition may also give rise to arrhythmias.
• Deficiency increases the risk of developing cancers.

Health Benefits of Selenium: Selenium Overdose Risk

Regular intake of foods and supplements containing selenium, have been know to provide several health benefits,

• Selenium helps improve the HDL to LDL (i.e. good cholesterol to bad cholesterol) ratio and lowers the risk of heart attacks. Further, it helps in reducing ‘blood thickness’ and decreases the risk of clot formations.
• According to a study published in US Journal, Agricultural Research, selenium taken in combination with Vitamin E can convert inactive viruses into active and disease causing forms. These findings reiterated the role of selenium in providing protection against shingles, cold sores and other viral infections like flu and common cold. It is also known to reduce the progression of dreaded disease like HIV/AIDS
• Selenium has protective action against development of macular degeneration and cataract.
• Combination of Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Coenzyme Q10 along with selenium has been found effective against a host of ailments including eczema, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Long term consumption of selenium dose in excess of 900 micrograms can result in complications like fatigue, hair loss, changes in the finger nails, skin rash,depression  and nausea. Always consult your medical professional before taking high dose selenium supplements.

Brazil Nut is the Best
Source of Selenium

Selenium Deficiency Treatment: Food Sources of Selenium

Consuming foods that are rich in selenium can suffice the dietary requirement and supplementation is often not required. Here are some important sources of Selenium,

• A single Brazil Nut contains as much as 120 micrograms of selenium and provides the highest concentration of selenium. Red Snapper is another important source of selenium
• Grains namely wheat bran, Oats, brown rice also contain selenium, which depends on the quantity of selenium content in the soil
• Sea foods are also a great source of selenium
• Poultry including eggs and chicken also contain selenium. Meat is another good source of the mineral.
• Herbs like Garlic also contain considerable amounts of the mineral.

It is often recommended to consume 500 IU of Vitamin E, which considerably enhances the effectiveness of the trace mineral.