Nutrition

Building a Strong Foundation

Essential Support for Musculoskeletal Health

Macintosh HD:Users:daisyypparila:Pictures:iPhoto Library:Originals:2006:Health:back pain.jpg

A healthy musculoskeletal system gives us the ability to move with ease and provides form, support and stability.  Yet, an estimated 52.5 million adults in the US reported being told by a doctor that they have some form of arthritis, which equals to having a significantly lesser quality of life than those without arthritis.  In fact, adults with arthritis report 2-4 times as many unhealthy days in the past month than those without arthritis.

Arthritis facts:  Osteoarthritis was commonly thought of as a degenerative disease, but recent understanding has revealed it to be much more complicated.  It is thought that genetics can play a role, as is very common for many diseases today.  Interestingly, although vitamin D deficiency has been associated with osteoarthritis, giving vitamin D supplements does nothing to reverse it (as isolated compounds rarely do).  Rheumatoid arthritis is considered more of an “autoimmune” disorder wherein your body attacks the joints, thus causing pain and inflammation.  While there are other forms of arthritis, the principles of supporting healthy joints naturally will apply in most cases and can be beneficial for most types.

So what are some natural options?

Since inflammation is the underlying issue in almost all types of arthritis, the typical medical treatment is the use of NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief).  However, its long-term use is concerning as it has been said that it can lead to all sorts of health issues, including a leaky gut and possibly even worsening the arthritis itself. 2,3,4

But what can you do to support joints in a natural way and

avoid some of the side effects of the commonly used drugs?

If you desire to be pain free and see results, but you are not ready to make many dietary changes, you can start by supporting your body’s natural inflammatory balance.  Simply removing foods from the “nightshade” family, such as potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and peppers can be dramatic and is easy to do.  Then add some Glucosamine Synergy, which is easy to take and inexpensive.  This is a great place to start.

For herbs with a successful and rich history of supporting the body’s natural inflammatory balance, turmeric, boswellia and ginger are recommended.  Taking Boswellia Complex with each meal can offer a simple and effective alternative.  Interestingly, herbs such as boswellia are lipophilic (they like lipids or fats); therefore, it is recommended that it be taken with healthy fats for a much more power result.

Next, nourishing the joints with omega 3 fatty acids like Cod Liver Oil can be of major benefit to patients with inflammatory conditions.  But remember, using a good quality oil is essential to reap the benefits.  Buying a lesser quality oil can actually cause more harm than good.

If you are willing to go further for even more results, consider adding more joint nourishing food concentrates like Calcifood wafers and Chlorophyll perles.

Call our office today to assess your nutritional needs and for the best and highest quality products to support joint health!