Nutrition for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cold water fish are a good source of selenium

For those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis it is important to include a diet that contains foods that are rich in vitamin B, vitamin E and zinc. It may also be important to ask if the following supplementation is right for you:

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids: these reduce inflammation and help prevent arthritis. It decreases tenderness in joints, reduces morning stiffness, and allows for a reduction in the amount of medication that people need.
• Omega 6 fatty acids – gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), may diminish joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness, and may allow for lower amounts of pain medication.
• Selenium - is an essential mineral and antioxidant, and low levels of selenium in the blood may be associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Vitamin D – necessary to maintain cartilage

Some other natural remedies to consider asking about are:

• Black Cohosh – may help to reduce inflammation
• Ginger – has long been used in traditional medicine to decrease inflammation.
• Willow bark – can decrease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Capsaicin – applied topically, it is believed to deplete stores of a chemical that contributes to the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.