The Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Available Natural Treatments
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the autoimmune system. It causes inflammation of the joints and the surrounding tissue, and can affect other organs in the body. Autoimmune diseases typically occur when the body begins to attack itself, due to malfunction in the immune system. The immune system is a very complex group of cells and antibodies designed to destroy foreign material in the body, most specifically infections. One factor of rheumatoid arthritis is it is a progressive illness, so it has the potential to cause joint damage leading to functional disability. Patients with autoimmune diseases create antibodies in their blood which then target their own body tissues, where they can be associated with inflammation. Sometimes rheumatoid arthritis is confused with gouty arthritis, which is a building up of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a waste product of the body, only generally present in the blood during the breakdown of foods high in purines, such as beef, alcohol and legumes. Whichever form of arthritis you have, there are natural remedies available. A modified diet is perhaps the best method of dealing with gouty arthritis. Consuming less (or no) alcohol and red meat are typically things your doctor will suggest. However, dark berries contain chemicals that lower uric acid and can reduce inflammation. Tofu and other soybean products can help replace meat. Salmon and other fish high in omega-3 oils are good for both types of arthritis and can help the body repair itself. Olive oil and garlic are anti-inflammatory so cooking with them can be a factor in reducing the pain. Raw potato juice is one of the most successful types of natural medication for rheumatoid arthritis. Adding a cup of green leafy vegetable juice is a good addition to your diet for general arthritis pain. The alkaline in the raw juices dissolves the build up of deposits around the joints. Fruit juices which are high in citric acid, like fresh pineapples or lime, can help dissolve the uric acid and reduce the swelling. A natural medication can provide high concentrations of the material that is effective in reducing the pain of arthritis. So, when your joints begin to ache and you think you may have the first signs of rheumatoid or gouty arthritis, think of modifying your diet. A primary factor in slowing or even halting the progress can be found through food, not over the counter medication.
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