Zinc exerts anti-inflammatory effect through reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, which can alleviate OA (145).
MMPs are a family of zinc-dependent proteins, which accumulate in the synovium during inflammation and have a central role in cartilage destruction in arthritis [36]. Among the MMPs involved in cartilage degradation, MMP-13 is the primary MMP expressed by chondrocytes and synovial cells in human OA and RA.
Several nutritional supplements have shown promise for relieving pain, stiffness and other arthritis symptoms. Glucosamine and chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, SAM-e and curcumin are just some of the natural products researchers have studied for osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Research Note: Studies show significantly lower zinc levels in people with rheumatoid arthritis compared to those without it. The lowest levels are associated with more severe disease. Researchers say zinc may help improve RA symptoms by supporting the immune system and cartilage.
Vitamin D is an important vitamin for our health and low levels have been associated with various disease states, including osteoarthritis. The majority of us can meet our vitamin D needs via the sun and exposure to ultraviolet (UVB) radiation.
Get Physical
Physical activity is the best available treatment for OA. It's also one of the best ways to keep joints healthy in the first place.
In conclusion, an increased magnesium dietary intake is associated with a better knee cartilage architecture, also when adjusting for potential confounders, suggesting a potential role of magnesium in the prevention and treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Its Role in Human Health.
Zinc in human plays an important role in cell mediated immunity and is also an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Zinc supplementation studies in the elderly have shown decreased incidence of infections, decreased oxidative stress, and decreased generation of inflammatory cytokines.
Some research has shown that people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from magnesium in their diet or as a supplement. Since arthritis can cause inflammation, magnesium's anti-inflammatory effects might help some people with the condition.
Studies show that a variety of nutrients may help ease arthritis symptoms. Foods rich in vitamin C, especially fruits and vegetables, may help. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and fish oil, may also help relieve pain. Experts say it's best to focus on healthy foods rather than on single nutrients.
1. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements. These supplements may help fight several types of inflammation, including vascular inflammation.
The most common triggers of an OA flare are overdoing an activity or trauma to the joint.
NEW YORK (Reuters Health)—Zinc supplementation may exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis (RA), new laboratory data suggest.
Zinc is an essential mineral that is required for normal skeletal growth and bone homeostasis. Furthermore, zinc appears to be able to promote bone regeneration. However, the cellular and molecular pathways through which zinc promotes bone growth, homeostasis, and regeneration are poorly understood.
Do not take zinc supplements if you take amiloride. Blood pressure medications, ACE Inhibitors -- A class of medications called ACE inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure, may decrease the levels of zinc in your blood. ACE inhibitors include: Benazepril (Lotensin)
Zinc deficiency. Taking zinc by mouth or giving zinc by IV helps to restore zinc levels in people who are zinc deficient. But taking zinc supplements regularly isn't recommended.
Adverse effects of high zinc intake include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and headaches. Intakes of 150–450 mg of zinc per day have been associated with such chronic effects as low copper status, altered iron function and reduced immune function.
It often takes 12 weeks before any improvement is seen. Long-term zinc supplementation requires 1–2 mg of copper per day to prevent copper deficiency.
Aerobic Exercise for Osteoarthritis
Try to get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. This could be 30 minutes, five times a week. If you can't spare a half-hour, break it up into 10-minute chunks throughout the day. You can start with short, brisk walks, climbing up and down stairs, or riding a stationary bike.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative arthritis caused by wear and tear of the joints. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain. There are several herbal compounds that are marketed today that provide relief in arthritis pain such as turmeric, ginger, devil's claw, willow bark, and Boswellia serrata.
Some studies show Epsom salt baths, otherwise known as mineral baths, increase certain cells that mediate inflammation and enhance circulation and breathing, which has an anti-inflammatory effect on patients suffering with arthritis.