By Brianna Siciliano
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which a body’s immune system attacks––instead of protecting––a body’s joints. The body’s abnormal immune response causes inflammation that can damage joints and organs, including the heart. About 1.5 million people in the United States have rheumatoid arthritis, and most of these people suffer symptoms such as pain, fatigue, joint stiffness, and swollen joints. The pain and stiffness can be eased, thankfully, but how? By diet, of course! Here are some natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet
Diet plays a major role in many chronic conditions; poor dieting may trigger inflammation. Failing to properly take care of your body, like taking vitamins and minerals every day, may worsen symptoms for people with arthritis. Everyone should have vitamin D in their diet. One the many benefits of Vitamin D is helping bones grow properly and stay strong, and it also helps our bodies take in the perfect amount of calcium needed. Vitamin D is extremely important for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have shown that many medications for RA sufferers have heightened the risks of experiencing vitamin D deficiency. In fact, those who take corticosteroids are two times more likely to be short on vitamin D. Without the benefits of vitamin D, bones can become soft and brittle. With arthritis, the last thing your body needs is bone loss!
Natural Remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, getting more vitamin D will definitely benefit your health. Get your vitamin D levels checked often, especially if you take oral steroids for your condition. To increase vitamin D levels, try getting at least 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight every other day. Doing this will help your body produce vitamin D naturally.
The rheumatoid arthritis diet can aid by balancing out nutritious foods, vitamins, and minerals, common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can decrease and lessen the pain that you have to suffer from. Do not let rheumatoid arthritis’ symptoms cause you any more harm than they already have. For more information on natural remedies for rheumatoid arthritis, or how you can benefit from the rheumatoid arthritis diet, call us today to schedule an appointment.