To help ourselves naturopathically this week:
Those suffering osteoarthritis are not alone, there are an estimated 10% of adults in New Zealand who experience osteoarthritis symptoms of painful joints due to the thinning then eventual breakdown of cartilage around the joints. Naturopathically there are options to consider, and diet is at the top of the list for a couple of reasons.
1. Inflammation - reduce the intake of foods that promote inflammation (like sugar, alcohol, red meat, processed foods, fatty foods). Instead eat plenty of vegetables, plus some fruit, wholegrains, protein (a small amount of meat is encouraged, just not every day, plus other sources of protein like fish, poultry, legumes/beans, eggs, quinoa, nuts, seeds). Inflammation can be seen in joints even before changes are evident in an X-ray
a. a 16 week trial in the UK showed that those following a Mediterranean diet (high in vegetables, fruit, beans, whole grains, fish, (with less red meat than usual) reported improved knee and hip rotation.
2. Another reason diet is important is for those who carry excess weight, as excess weight puts more pressure on joints resulting in the possibility of increased joint pain. Replacing the intake of inflammatory foods with healthier anti-inflammatory foods (along with movement and exercise) can help to reduce weight.
There are some supplements that may help, everyone is different so what works for one person may not work for another.
I always suggest to clients that they ensure they’re taking a good quality omega 3 oil, as these can reduce inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory herbs include turmeric, ginger, celery, garlic, rosemary, cinnamon, nettle.
Consider making a daily turmeric latte heat 1 cup of almond milk with 1 tsp root turmeric, 1 tsp root ginger, ¼ tsp cinnamon, and a grind of black pepper. Add vanilla essence and/or maple syrup to sweeten if required.
Substitute with ¼ tsp turmeric and ¼ tsp ginger if the fresh roots are not available
There have been mixed results whether glucosamine and chondroitin are effective at reducing pain and inflammation, some trials show positive benefits while other trials do not – if you find these substances work then continue with them.
These are some of the suggestions I make to clients who have arthritis symptoms. Most report some improvement, particularly once they change their diet.
If you would like to know more please contact me on gina@bodyofwork.co.nz
As a disclaimer since I’m not providing this information following a full consultation, please note that this information provided is for informational or educational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals
