Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes swelling and pain that can range from mild to absolutely excruciating. Most arthritic conditions fall into one of twin categories: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

    Osteoarthritis is by far the more common, as it afflicts approximately 40 million Americans and 80 percent of people over 50-years-old. This disease usually appears in the joints that do most of the body's hard work: the knees, the hips, the spine, and the hands. Not only do injuries and the aging process contribute to this arthritis, but it can also be made worse by food allergies, poor diet, and mineral deposits in the joints.

    Rheumatoid arthritis is a completely different story. It is highly believed that it is caused by an inappropriate immune reaction, in which white blood cells attack the cartilage in the joints. It can go on to destroy the bones and even the muscles and the skin. It can be exceedingly painful and can cripple those who suffer from it. It is hard to tell what the causes of RA really are, but it has been proven that genetics, food allergies, infections, stress, excess acid in the body, and the presence of certain antibodies in the blood could have a role in the disease.

    There are certain things that can be underlying factors for both of these types of arthritis. These include: poor digestive function, hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies, food allergies, and lifestyle factors.

Changing your diet could be one of the most important things you can do. Many people have been able to find a way to control their arthritis just by doing this.

Recommended Food

• Flaxseeds and cold-water fish (such as salmon and mackerel) are high in essential fatty acids and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Eat lots of fiber in the form of raw vegetables and whole grains. This will help clean out the mineral and acid build-up and keep your digestive system free of harmful bacteria. Certain vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, also have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Foods that are high in sulfur will repair cartilage and bone. Try to eat some asparagus, cabbage, garlic, or onion on a daily basis.
• Drink a glass of clean water every two waking hours, to keep cartilage lubricated and healthy.
• Raw pineapple has an enzyme called bromelain, which has been shown to reduce inflammation. This can be consumed whole, or even as a juice!

Food To Avoid

• Acidic foods will cause inflammation, which leads to pain. Avoid things like red meat, eggs, saturated fats, oils, fried foods, sugar, dairy products, refined carbohydrates, foods high in gluten, alcohol, and caffiene.
• Foods that can trigger allergic responses, such as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers.

 Doing a vegetable juice or water fast is very helpful with reducing joint pain. It is highly recommended that you work with a nutrition-oriented doctor, so that you do things the way your body needs it.

Lemon and grapefruit juices are especially great and supportive of an arthritis fast.

Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of honey into a glass of clean water, and drink it every day of your fast. This will help alkalinize your body.

Also, green drinks are excellent for detoxification. You can usually find these at your health and nutrition stores. If not there, try to find a holistic/naturopathic doctor or physician near you, who offers these types of products.

 You will find some links to these products at the bottom of the page, thanks to Amazon.com and their great prices!

Prescription #1

Glucosamine sulfate - Take 1,500mg daily. Most formulas also contain chondroitin sulfate, a related compound that also reduces joint pain and rebuilds cartilage. - This is a great remedy for osteoarthritis.

Prescription #2

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) - Take 2,000 to 8,000mg daily. MSM is a natural anti-inflammatory and contains the mineral sulfur, which is an integral component of cartilage.

Prescription #3

Fish oil - Take a daily dose of at least 1.8mg of DHA and 1.2mg of EPA. Fish oil contains a direct source of omega-3 fatty acids that reduce joint inflammation and promote joint lubrication.

Prescription #4

High-potency multivitamin - Take a formula that is rich in a blend of antioxidants, which will prevent joint tissue destruction.

Prescription #5

Betaine HCL - Take this to increase stomach acid and improve digestion.

Prescription #6

Bromelain - Take 500mg three times daily between meals. Look for products standardized to 2,000 M.C.U. (milk-clotting units) per 1,000mg or 1,200 G.D.U. (gelatin-dissolving units) per 1,000mg. Bromelain has a natural anti-inflammatory effect.