Delaying the Onset of Arthritis with Nutrition

The different types of arthritis The word arthritis comes from the Greek word "arthro" which means to join and "itis" meaning "inflammation". It is not take a degree in classics to work out what is affected by this disease but the knowledge and cures for arthritis are still limited despite the high prevalence. The latest statistics show that one in three adult Americans suffer from some form of arthritis. It is also now clear that more women suffer than men. There are many types of arthritis with the most common being osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.
Arthritis can also be caused by infections in the joints, as in the case of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Related diseases are Ankylosing spondylitis, a rarer form of the disease affecting the spine, and Gout caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. If there is an increase in bacteria in the joints a person could even suffer from septic arthritis. Repetitive strain, injuries, overexertion and falls can also cause this disease. The wrists, fingers, knees, feet and ankles are the most commonly affected joints. Children below the age of 16 can have juvenile arthritis. This is a disease that some children are unfortunately predisposed to and it may entail more complex methods of treatment.

The ingredients needed for a better joint health
It is now becoming increasingly evident that good nutrition, along with exercise and the prevention of injuries could help in better joint health. Good nutrition means the right amounts of essential fats, antioxidants, proteins, minerals and carbohydrates. Eating too little or eating the wrong nutrients is as dangerous as over eating. Calcium together with Vitamin C and D prevent cartilage and bone damage. Proper iron intake also keeps the bone marrow healthy.
To ensure enough calcium and a slim waistline it is best to have nonfat or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Many vegetables such as spinach also contain some calcium, as do nuts and soy. Vitamins are rife in all fruits and vegetables so if you are looking for a snack - this is a good bet. Daily exercise early in the morning, preferably outdoors ensures enough Vitamin D, essential for the proper absorption of calcium. Antioxidant nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-carotene can also help prevent certain types of arthritis.
Good nutrition should begin in childhood so that the foundation is laid for a good and strong bone structure. It also means giving up bad habits, the most important being smoking and eating junk food. It is essential to keep a healthy weight. Dieting leads to the loss of nutrients and calcium, while over eating could cause excess pressure on the load bearing joints so a healthy balance is needed! The joints that are most vulnerable are the hip and knee joints. Any weight reduction over the years helps in preventing arthritis. It is also equally important to try and ensure a life free of injuries. In the case of sports, proper protection must be worn so as not to get injured but don't let this put you off as exercise is one of the most important factors in leading a healthier life into old age.

How to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of arthritic pain
Keeping the joints "well-oiled" requires a healthy lifestyle including eating, sleeping and exercising well. One of major reasons for arthritis and the lessening of synovial fluid is incorrect diet - too much processed foods, alcohol and meat and very little raw vegetables and fruits. A deficiency of water also causes the lowering of the levels of the synovial fluid. Incorrect diet, lack of exercise, injuries and auto-immune diseases such as lupus could lower the levels of this essential fluid. Often corrective exercise such as swimming, yoga and muscle strengthening exercises could help keep the joints pain-free. However, the doctor should be consulted before any program is started as rapid increases in exercise can put additional strains on other systems of the body.