Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a frustrating and painful condition that affects more than one million Americans. [1] But did you know that certain factors in your nutrition could make a significant difference? If you’re interested in the role that vitamins play in soothing the symptoms of RA, read on.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – Basics Explained
Arthritis is a term that’s well-known and often used. Even so, that does not mean that this disease is understood well by doctors and scientists. According to the Arthritis Foundation, rheumatoid arthritis is one of over one hundred different types all under the umbrella terms of “arthritis.” [2]
RA affects joints and a patient’s autoimmune system. It causes your body to attack different joints and whole systems. This is a systemic disease because it can also cause problems with cardiovascular or respiratory systems.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – Symptoms and Causes
Unfortunately, we still don’t know the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis. Children can show symptoms starting at age two, while adults exhibit them after thirty. Cases and symptoms can vary widely in severity. However, these are the most common symptoms:
– Stiffness, swelling, soreness or warm sensation in joints
– Feeling stiff after prolonged inactivity or in the morning
– Feeling joint and body fatigue
– Unexplained weight loss
Symptoms reported by patients offer valuable clues for diagnosis, but a blood test is the best way to diagnose RA. One such test will look for some or all of the following factors:
– Anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) antibodies
– CRP (c-reactive protein)
– Rheumatoid factor antibodies
– An elevated ESR or sed rate (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
– Anemia tests can help with a diagnosis because a low blood cell count points to systemic chronic illness
Lastly, x-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds can track RA progress and the effectiveness of treatment.
Should I Take Vitamins for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Minerals and vitamins play a significant role in any treatment plan for rheumatoid arthritis because:
– RA causes weight loss or wasting disease that drains your body of important minerals and vitamins
– RA patients are often sensitive to certain foods or have allergies and intolerances (gluten) which makes it harder to ingest enough nutrients.
– Some foods can make RA symptoms such as joint pain worse, while others can alleviate symptoms.
Moreover, specific vitamins are crucial for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to help them lead active, pain-free lives. They include:
– Vitamin D due to it role in bone growth
– Vitamin E because it makes some RA drugs more effective
– Omega-3 fatty acids that reduce joint pain
– Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) – certain RA drugs prevent absorption
– Gamma-linolenic acid for its promising results in bringing down pain and swelling
– Anti-inflammatory supplements bromelain or turmeric
Check with your doctor to make sure you don’t have a vitamin deficiency, and start treatment immediately if necessary.
Vitamin D Matters
Doctors specializing in RA will always tell you Vitamin D is important because a Vitamin D deficiency can make symptoms worse. You can increase levels by getting natural sunlight or eating more fish and eggs. You may also find that some products are fortified with Vitamin D. If you want to make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D, you should consider using supplements.
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/facts-statistics-infographic
[2] https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis.php