Arthritis: Part 3 – Supplements

As a Registered Nutritionist, I have seen dozens of clients who live constantly with Joint Pain and Arthritis. When I look at their daily diet journal, they are often eating too many of the foods that will aggravate the problem and not enough of the foods that will help alleviate the problem. In part 1 of this 2 part lens on Arthritis, I will give some suggestions on the best supplements to incorporate into your diet to help reduce your daily pain.

FISH OIL: Contains a direct source of omega 3 fatty acids that reduce joint inflammation and promote joint lubrication. (It is better than flax oil – but this is an option for vegetarians). Make sure that the fish oil is molecularly distilled to remove any heavy metals, such as mercury, from the oil. This process makes it more expensive but it is worth it because heavy metals get stored in the brain and liver and can lead to other health problems. Recent research indicates that many Alzheimer’s patients have mercury deposits in the memory section of the brain. Take at least 1.8mg of DHA and 1.2mg of EPA daily

GLUCOSAMINE SULFATE: This is a remedy specific to Osteoarthritis only. It helps to reduce joint pain and rebuild cartilage. Take 1,500mg daily

METHYLSULFONYLMETHANE (MSM): Has natural anti-inflammatory properties and contains the mineral sulfur which is a component of cartilage.

HIGH-QUALITY MULTI-VITAMIN: You get what you pay for. Drug-store variety vitamins are usually very look quality, use sub-optimal ingredients, cannot be assimilated properly in the body and can sometimes cause more harm than good. Take the time to research the best supplements you can afford and use those. You can visit my website www.myhealthybalance.com to see which supplements I recommend.

BETAINE HCL: Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) is required to properly digest proteins in the stomach. People suffering from Arthritis are often chronically low on HCL (see my lens – The Truth About Acid Reflux) and the undigested protein becomes toxic in their system and results in joint pain. Follow directions on the bottle.

BROMELAIN: Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is the key to pineapple's value. Proteolytic means "breaks down protein", which is why pineapple is known to be a digestive aid. It helps the body digest proteins more efficiently. Bromelain is also considered an effective anti-inflammatory.

TURMERIC: Is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. It is important to reduce inflammation in the joint before repair can take place. Turmeric is the main spice used in curry (it provides the bright orange/yellow color), but can also be taken in supplement form.

VITAMIN C: Known as the “healing vitamin”, it is one of the building blocks of collagen, is an anti-inflammatory and helps repair damaged tissue. It is also the only vitamin that tells us when we have had enough through “bowel tolerance”. When you take too much vitamin C, you develop gas and diarrhea. Start with 1000mg per day and add an additional 1000mg everyday until you reach bowel tolerance, then pull back. The amount will be different for everyone and may change throughout the year.

GINGER ROOT: Is a great choice for relief of both inflammation and pain. Pour boiling water over grated ginger root and drink the tea. (You can add some natural honey for flavor if you wish)

GREEN FOODS: Chlorella and spirulina are both super green foods that are high in antioxidants and aid in detoxification.

Acne - What Helps and What to Avoid

As most people know, hormones play a significant role in acne. Acne is NOT caused by uncleanliness but rather by overactive oil glands caused by hormonal fluctuations. Many people will use harsh chemicals treatments, wash the face excessively, which can be extremely irritating and lead to redness and infection of the blemishes. Excess yeast in the system can be another underlying cause of acne so using antibiotics can further aggravate the problem by causing an imbalance of bacteria in the intestines leading to a yeast overgrowth.

A natural treatment plan for acne emphasizes dietary changes. The second biggest contributor to acne is poor nutrition. Fat, sugar and processed foods accelerate skin inflammation and acne. Other considerations are stress reduction, detoxification, natural hormone balancing and identifying potential allergies.

What Helps:

DARK GREEN & ORANGE VEGETABLES: These are full of beta-carotene which helps maintain and repair the skin. It is best to eat them raw or lightly cooked.

FLAXSEEDS: Consuming ½ cup per day will provide plenty of fiber for proper elimination as well as useful essential fatty acids. Take with 8 ounces of water.

NUTS & SEEDS: Almonds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds are good choices for skin-healthy vitamin E and essential fatty acids.

GOOD QUALITY PROTEIN: Beans, lentils, peas, eggs and fresh cold-water fish such as mackerel, sardines, herring and salmon.

PLAIN YOGURT: The good bacteria in yogurt can help combat yeast overgrowth in the intestines.

ZINC: This is one of the best minerals for the treatment of acne as it promotes skin healing. Take 50mg 2 times per day.

SAW PALMETTO: Blocks excessive DHT of the sebaceous glands and is effective for both men and women. Take 160mg/day

DANDELION ROOT: Supports the liver, which may be overtaxed with toxins. It also acts as a gentle laxative and can help with waste removal. Take 300-500mg/day

MILK THISTLE: Also supports liver detoxification. Take 200-250mg/day

OIL OF OREGANO: Destroys yeast overgrowths associated with acne formation. Take 500mg twice a day or use the liquid form under the tongue (it tastes horrible but works)

COLLOIDAL SILVER: This solution should be in every medicine cabinet. It is has amazing anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. Dab it onto pimples twice daily (also use on any cuts or abrasions and they will heal very quickly and likely not get infected)

TEA TREE OIL: Apply a solution of 5% tea tree diluted in water by dabbing on blemishes. Test a small area of your skin first for irritation.

GREEN FOODS: Chlorella, spirulina and other seaweeds and grasses support skin healing and detoxification.

What to Avoid:

JUNK & PROCESSED FOODS: Of course, this recommendation applies to everyone, but the toxins in these foods will lead to more acne.

SUGAR: Sugar encourages oil production and is a food source for bacteria and yeast. Artificial sweeteners.

POTENTIAL ALLERGINS: Wheat, dairy, sugar, chocolate and corn are common allergins that can trigger acne. Try an elimination diet to see if symptoms improve.

CAFFEINE: Tea, coffee and other caffeinated drinks may aggravate skin conditions.