Vitamin B6: Research seems to show inflammation from RA lowers B6 levels which in turn makes the inflammation worse. In addition, the NSAIDs that many people use to treat their inflammation lowers B6 levels in people with 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 from 2017 also recommends people living with RA eat probiotic yogurt and spices like turmeric and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, the results of multiple studies suggest that turmeric and curcumin can prevent and combat inflammation.
There is some evidence that one version of vitamin B12, called methyl B12 or methylcobalamin, can help reduce pain caused by RA. Researchers believe that this pain reduction occurs because that form of vitamin B12 strengthens nerve fibers, which are then not as susceptible to irritation by inflamed joints.
Some people use supplements to try to help manage joint pain from arthritis. Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, and green tea are just a few of them. Glucosamine helps keep the cartilage in joints healthy and may have an anti-inflammatory effect.
38 39 Our study explored that when dietary magnesium intake is below 181 mg/day, increased dietary magnesium intake was associated with a reduced prevalence of RA, which may be due to the anti-inflammatory effect of magnesium inhibiting proinflammatory gene expression.
Spinach, kale, broccoli and collard greens are great sources for vitamins E and C. Vitamin E works to protect the body against pro-inflammatory molecules. Vitamin C helps the body make collagen, which is a major component of cartilage that aids in joint flexibility.
Vitamin K. Vitamin K is essential for developing cartilage structure and sending calcium to your bones, both of which are vital for healthy joints. You can get vitamin K from leafy greens like kale, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and collard greens.
Studies also have found that a lack of vitamin D is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease characterized by swollen, aching joints and numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
Overexertion, poor sleep, stress or an infection like the flu can all set off RA symptoms. With a predictable flare you'll temporarily feel worse, but your symptoms will resolve in time. Unpredictable flares have more uncertainty associated with them.
“The best natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is an anti-inflammatory diet,” says Dr. Rosian. “This diet typically is low in animal protein. You would eat more plant-based proteins, including legumes, nuts and seeds.”
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, which means it's caused by the immune system attacking healthy body tissue. However, it's not yet known what triggers this. Your immune system normally makes antibodies that attack bacteria and viruses, helping to fight infection.
Eat Your Fruits and Veggies
Most of them are full of antioxidants, which boost your immune system and may fight inflammation. Try fruits like prunes, raisins, and berries.
Although turmeric may help alleviate symptoms of arthritis, there is not enough evidence to suggest that it can replace standard medical treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA are important to reduce or prevent irreversible joint damage.
Turmeric. A golden spice that's long been used to lend color and flavor to foods, turmeric also has been used in ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for a variety of conditions, including arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.
Vitamin D can play a role is easing some of the symptoms related to rheumatoid arthritis, but it is by no means a panacea. You still need your medication and other forms of therapy to keep the disease under control.
Chondroitin and glucosamine are two natural substances within your cartilage, which tends to decrease around your joints as you age. Supplements containing these components have been found to reduce pain caused by cartilage loss, with chondroitin improving function and glucosamine improving stiffness.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. OTC doses of these drugs, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), may be useful for relieving pain. At higher prescription doses they may also relieve inflammation. Duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Taking magnesium can help to reduce arthritic pain and inflammation. It may be beneficial to take magnesium supplements or eat foods rich in magnesium if you are experiencing arthritic pain.