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By Darla Miller, BS, MBA –
Arthritis (from Greek arthro-, joint + -itis, inflammation; plural: arthritides) is a form of joint disorder that involves inflammation of one or more joints. According to several sources I reviewed, there are more than 100 different forms of arthritis, with a host of causes.
Arthritis is primarily marked by a breakdown and loss of joint cartilage, which is the tough tissue that separates and cushions the bones in a joint. As cartilage is worn away, the bones begin to rub against each other. In osteoarthritis, this breakdown of cartilage is accompanied by inflammation. Osteoarthritis is, by far, the most common form of arthritis.
Joint pain can greatly impact our quality of life. So, in this article I’d like to provide some information regarding several ways we can maintain healthy joints.
Inflammation is the root of so many illnesses. Some say it’s the root of all dis-ease. Therefore, minimizing inflammation in the body is key to healthy joints. What we eat is vastly important in every aspect of our health and well-being. In particular, we need to understand which foods may cause an inflammatory reaction in our body. Dr. Peter D’Adamo, a naturopathic doctor, wrote a book, “Eating Right for Your Blood Type”, which encourages people to eat certain foods and avoid others based on their blood type — A, B, AB, or O. The Leesburg Herb Shoppe has a one-page, condensed version of the information from the book listing which foods are beneficial, neutral or ones that should be avoided, by blood type (see my special offer at the end of this article). This is an extremely helpful place to begin, when determining which foods are considered alkalizing or acidic to your system.
Sometimes you cannot always eat the proper amounts of fruits and vegetables. If you are like me, eating right is sometimes very hard, so supplementing with whole food, raw fruits and vegetables, like Juice Plus, may be a critical component in your daily routine (for more information about whole food, raw fruits and vegetables, please visit www.darlamillersharesjuiceplus.com).
Exercise – keep moving. One way to prevent achy joints is to keep moving. If you sit at a desk all day, make time to move at least 2-3 times per day. Do some stretches at your desk. Take the stairs when going to lunch. Make this a priority.
Watch your weight. Intuitively we understand that excess weight is strongly linked to achy joints and arthritis, especially in the knees, hips, ankles and feet. One statistic I found was – losing just 15 pounds can reduce your risk of joint pain by 50%. Another statistic I found was – a weight gain of 10 pounds can mean an equivalent stress increase of 40 pounds on the knees. So if you are carrying excess pounds, losing weight can help improve joint function. Whole body vibration can be extremely helpful for folks that cannot exercise or who find it hard to get to a gym. Great benefits can be accomplished in only ten minutes per day! Visit the Leesburg Herb Shoppe for more information about this system.
But, what are some of the supplements you can take to help get your body back in balance and reduce inflammation?
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. I’ve talked with several naturopathic doctors, many agree that most of us are Omega-3 deficient. We get plenty of Omega-6’s and 9’s in our diet, but not enough Omega-3’s. Several studies have shown that fish oil supplements may help reduce morning joint stiffness. This is just one of the many benefits of Omega-3 supplementation.
To address joint pain relief and/or prevention, the Leesburg Herb Shoppe carries a product called: Everflex with Hyaluronic Acid. The nutrients in this product work together to enhance cartilage repair and improve joint function. The ingredients include glucosamine hydrochloride (helps lubricate joints by replenishing synovial fluid, which promotes a joint’s shock-absorbing abilities.), chondroitin sulfate (attracts fluid and draws nutrients into the cartilage, making the cartilage more shock absorbent), MSM (a significant component of the body’s proteins, hormones, enzymes and tissues, an significant source of sulfur), hyaluronic acid (an important component of cartilage and synovial fluid; it occurs naturally throughout the body) and devil’s claw (anti-inflammatory). For more information about this product, please visit: http://oldthymeremedies.mynsp.com/.
Please visit the Leesburg Herb Shoppe in historic downtown Leesburg, Florida. If you mention this article when you come into the shoppe, you will receive 1 FREE EATING RIGHT FOR YOUR BLOOD TYPE CHART. Offer valid, while supplies last.
The information in this article is for educational purposes. It is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure. Like any product, there may be some contraindications. Please consult your health care professional before starting a new dietary regime.
For more information, please call Darla Miller at (352) 315-4372. For more information about the Leesburg Herb Shoppe, please visit the website www.LeesburgHerbShoppe.com.
