Rheumatoid Arthritis Dietary Supplements

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which the joints of the body are attacked by the immune system. This will result in the swelling and stiffness of these joints followed by inflammation. There will be apparent redness and aches all over and therefore, the movement of the person will be strained and painful. Rheumatoid arthritis might also lead to destruction of the bones, cartilage and ligaments, thus affecting the joints further.

There is no permanent cure for this condition, but it has been seen that a change in the diet can help reduce the pain and further prevent an onset of a painful attack. In the following article, we will look into some of the supplements that can be used to keep this condition under check.

Dietary Supplements for Rheumatoid Arthritis Sufferers

The remainder of this article deals with some of the best rheumatoid arthritis supplements that have been researched upon. Some of them are everyday substances while others are specialized herbs for rheumatoid arthritis.

Thunder God Vine
Thunder god vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) is a medicinal plant that has been used in Chinese medicine for many centuries now. The extracts from certain parts of the plant are used very frequently in an arthritis diet. It has been found that the extracts of this plant when used by a person suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, help to fight inflammation that is caused. Along with that they suppress the immune system from fighting back and causing havoc in the body. If taken in the correct dosage it can also help in combating several of the symptoms that are caused by rheumatoid arthritis and reduce pain. However, you have to be very, very careful that you do not take a very high dosage in your rheumatoid arthritis diet plan and do not continue for a long period of time since it could lead to severe side effects.

Fish Oil
Fish oil is one of the richest sources of omega 3 fatty acids. This substance is essential to achieve an overall boost to the system. It helps to reduce the inflammation that is caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Along with that, it also helps in reducing the other symptoms that are brought on by this condition, like pain and swelling. It has been shown that it helps in relieving tender joints and morning stiffness as well. Herring, mackerel, salmon, and tuna are some of the fish that are high in omega 3. Also, fish oil supplements are available as capsules or oils as well. The other sources include flaxseed oil and canola and primrose oils.

GLA (Gamma-linolenic Acid)
These acids are a rich source of the omega 6 fatty acids and can be traced back to plants like black currant, primrose and borage which are its richest sources. Omega 6 helps to form certain properties in the body that can act as reducers of inflammation.

Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a very popular ingredient that is used in Asian countries for its multipurpose functions. It has been seen that turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the pain and discomfort that comes about as a natural result of arthritis. An arthritis diet that contains turmeric has not only shown to reduce inflammation and certain other properties, but has also shown to improve one's immunity and therefore, prevent the onset of an attack.

Others
Some other dietary supplements for rheumatoid arthritis that have been known to work are - Ginseng, green tea, certain varieties of boswellia, ginger, soy products and others. These should be included as a part of a balanced diet.

Now that you know what some of the rheumatoid arthritis supplements are, you can inculcate them in the rheumatoid arthritis diet recipes. This will ensure that you keep the arthritis at bay and lead a pain free life. All the best!