Freedom over Arthritis
Today, I’m thrilled to unveil vital tools for regaining your freedom from Arthritis, a term that actually encompasses over 100 distinct joint-related conditions. Among these, the 4 most prevalent are osteoarthritis, autoimmune inflammatory arthritis, infectious arthritis, and gout. Given this wide array of conditions, I’ve set out to create an all-encompassing guide to help you understand and tackle each one. It’s a daunting task, but rest assured, I’m here to guide you through this intricate journey and uncover effective, personalised solutions that meet your unique needs. Let's embark on this path to relief together!
Arthritis can cause lasting damage to your joints, with common symptoms like pain, stiffness, and swelling. The severity of the disease can vary greatly, ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms may fluctuate, with periods of relief and flare-ups. For some people, the symptoms remain stable for years, while others may experience worsening over time. There are 4 primary categories of Arthritis. I'll cover Foods, Supplements, Life Style Changes and Ancient Practices to help you on the road to freedom. At the base of the Article I'll share what to avoid. As always if you're reading this in 2024 or it's 2094 I will always come back and update this guide as I learn more things. Enjoy...
Foundation
I often find myself expressing this message, and I'm perfectly okay with that because it is of utmost importance. We will begin by focusing on these fundamental principles; once we have them under control, you can feel free to research anything you're unsure about. It is essential that you prioritise these core actions before moving on to the additional specifics, whether sequentially or concurrently.
Sleep: Get your sleep right for you, you can find a Sleep Guide on this blog to help.
Movement: If you can get 30 mins of exercise daily, walking, cycling, gardening.
Eating: Eliminate or massively reduce by 75% any consumption of processed food (see my article on food toxins if unsure) and sugars. Avoid seed oils, surely you know this now, but get them out of your diet by at least 80%. Eliminate processed drinks, choose water and quality teas, coffee, vegetable juices or make some Elixirs with Apple Cider Vinegar etc.
Whole Diet: You could consider trying the carnivore diet for 3-6 months and see what happens, personally I don't feel it's a life time solution , see how you get on. For some people it works, depending on the cause. Using it continuously may not be great. I've tried it, I'm personally not convinced, others are. If you do it, you can still add in the supplements, and hacks. Perhaps Keto is more suitable. One thing to consider is that often those "cured" as soon as they come off the whole meat diet symptoms return. What we want is total freedom.
Peace: Discover tranquillity throughout your day by recognising that true happiness comes from within. Release the pressure to seek fulfilment outside yourself; simply be. Embark on a journey to uncover your authentic self and experience profound peace. It may take time, but it’s worth the effort. Explore our insightful articles in the Peace & Serenity Section to guide you on this path.
Release Traumas & Negativity: Again we are all a work in progress, but start a journey and dedicate time or more time to doing this.
Family & Friends: I don't have much family left but I try my best to see my mum every week no matter how busy I am, I call her more even it never came natural to me as a bit of a nomad. I make sure I see my friends as much as I can and I put all of it above work. We need love and support and we must also give it, so don't make this journey to wellness alone. Learn to forgive, humans make awful mistakes and do awful things but be forgiving, don't hold on to bad feelings. Give out what you want in your life.
As you embark on this journey or strive to do your best, I encourage you to follow the guidelines outlined below. May you find peace, happiness, and wellness along the way. I inadvertently typed "Amazon," but perhaps that’s fitting as an Amazon journey evokes the image of a winding river filled with both challenges and surprises, yet ultimately a voyage of wonder and amazement. Enjoy every moment!
Foods
Cruciferous Vegetables: Vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage contain a compound known as sulphoraphane. This organic sulphur compound has been found to support cell function. Studies have shown that it can reduce inflammation by lowering levels of reactive oxygen species by up to 73%, which helps decrease cellular damage. Sulphoraphane may also reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, partly by inhibiting enzymes associated with joint destruction. A research team from the University of East Anglia published a study in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatism, indicating that compounds in cruciferous vegetables could potentially slow or even prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. The study found that sulphoraphane achieves this by inhibiting metalloproteinases implicated in osteoarthritis development and progression. Additionally, it was shown to reduce inflammation, thereby protecting cartilage from damage in both laboratory and animal models.
Purple Foods: Research has shown that there is significant health potential in the colour purple. Purple and red berries are rich in anthocyanins, which are secondary metabolites that plants produce to protect themselves from predators. These compounds influence various pathways to promote human health. Anthocyanins are particularly known for their ability to combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can aid in pain management for people with inflammation-related conditions like arthritis. Research also highlights the effectiveness of anthocyanins in slowing cognitive decline and safeguarding the heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal system. Studies further suggest that anthocyanins found in cherries and other berries can help regulate lipid and glucose metabolism. Elderberries, in particular, are abundant in anthocyanins, vitamin C, and zinc. These berries possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate pain in arthritis patients.
Herbs & Spices: Research has shown that spices like garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric may aid in pain management for those with arthritis. Cinnamon, a 2018 study found that cinnamon supplementation was a safe and effective complementary treatment for women with rheumatoid arthritis. This randomised, double-blind clinical trial included 36 women, split into two groups—one receiving cinnamon and the other a placebo for 8 weeks. Although the study was small and limited to women, the results showed a significant reduction in tender and swollen joints without affecting liver enzymes, lipid levels, blood sugar, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Ginger is known for its ability to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms. A 2001 study discovered that using a highly purified, standardised ginger extract could significantly reduce these symptoms and demonstrated a good safety profile. More recently, a 2020 review confirmed that ginger is a safe and promising option for pain relief, particularly for osteoarthritis, though further research is needed to determine optimal dosing for long-term therapy. Garlic, a 2020 study involving 62 women with rheumatoid arthritis found that garlic supplementation over eight weeks improved oxidative stress markers and overall health assessments. Turmeric, well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has also been studied for its potential benefits in arthritis treatment. A 2016 review of randomised clinical trials assessed the effects of turmeric extract and curcumin on arthritis symptoms, with positive but inconclusive results due to limited sample sizes. Further research in 2021 compared turmeric to placebos, showing improvements in knee osteoarthritis pain and function, with effects comparable to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In a 2021 randomised trial, turmeric was directly compared to paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen). The study revealed that bioavailable turmeric extract was as effective as paracetamol for reducing knee osteoarthritis pain and symptoms. Additionally, it was found to be more effective in lowering levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and C-reactive protein (CRP), both markers of inflammation. That's impressive, right? You want to try it? Here you can purchase Pure Organic Turmeric Powder. Cayenne Pepper has capsaicin which is the active compound in it, can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. It is also known to improve blood flow, which is beneficial for overall joint health.
Omegas: Throughout history, the human diet maintained an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of approximately 1:1. However, the modern Western diet now has a ratio closer to 20:1, which heightens the inflammatory response and thus affects pain levels. Most processed foods and seed oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Although some plants contain omega-3 fats, only marine sources like fatty fish provide long-chain omega-3 fats—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—which are highly bioavailable and crucial for good health. An imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio increases the risk of obesity and promotes inflammation, both of which can impact pain management in arthritis. The only way to accurately assess your omega-3 levels is through a simple blood test known as the omega-3 index. This test measures the amount of EPA and DHA in red blood cell membranes, offering insight into your dietary intake.
Bone Broths: Bone broth provides a natural source of collagen, which may help rebuild cartilage, improve joint function, and reduce pain. Gelatine, derived from collagen, is known to support joint health by acting as a lubricant for joints. It helps cushion the joints, reducing friction and discomfort in people with arthritis. Bone broth contains amino acids like glycine, proline, and glutamine, which have natural anti-inflammatory effects. Glycine in particular is known for its role in regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, making it beneficial for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, which is driven by inflammation. The anti-inflammatory compounds in bone broth may help reduce swelling and pain in arthritic joints, providing natural relief without the side effects of conventional medications. The nutrients in bone broth, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, are often taken as supplements to support joint health. These compounds are naturally found in bone broth and are believed to help repair damaged cartilage, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
Supplements Fast Tracking & Utilising Intelligent Progress
MSM Organic Sulphur: Honestly a whole article I could write on how MSM can help. I'm trying to summarise. MSM is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). It blocks inflammatory pathways, reducing the production of cytokines and prostaglandins that contribute to arthritis flare-ups. It also helps inhibit NF-kB, a protein complex involved in the inflammatory response, thus reducing joint pain and swelling. Sulphur is a critical component in the formation of collagen—the protein that provides structure to cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. MSM supports the body’s natural production of collagen, which can help repair damaged cartilage and slow down joint degeneration. By boosting collagen synthesis, MSM helps improve joint flexibility and cushioning, reducing the friction that causes pain in arthritic joints. It also aids in maintaining the elasticity of connective tissues, which can help prevent further joint damage. MSM is a potent antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralise free radicals that cause oxidative stress and damage tissues, including the joints. Free radicals can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage in arthritic patients, worsening symptoms over time.
By reducing oxidative stress, MSM protects joint cells from damage, promoting long-term joint health. This antioxidant effect is especially beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition where oxidative stress contributes to joint damage. Arthritis often leads to muscle stiffness and soreness due to reduced mobility. MSM can help alleviate these symptoms by improving circulation and reducing muscle spasms. Studies have shown that MSM can reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, helping to improve overall mobility. It also helps increase the body's natural levels of glutathione, a key antioxidant that aids in muscle recovery. A 2006 study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that MSM supplementation significantly reduced pain and improved physical function in people with osteoarthritis of the knee after 12 weeks. A 2011 study published in The Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, MSM supplementation led to a notable reduction in joint pain and inflammation in patients with knee osteoarthritis. More recent research has shown that MSM, when combined with other supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, can have a synergistic effect, further enhancing pain relief and joint health.
Boron: Along with MSM and Vitamin D I put this naturally occurring trace mineral right at the top. It plays a key role in several metabolic processes that affect bone health and joint function. Without sufficient boron, calcium may not be properly absorbed or utilised, leading to weaker bones and an increased risk of joint degeneration, which is a hallmark of arthritis. A lack of boron has been linked to increased levels of pro-inflammatory markers in the body, contributing to the chronic inflammation that underpins arthritis, particularly in autoimmune types like rheumatoid arthritis. Boron supports the production of sex hormones like oestrogen and testosterone, both of which influence bone density and joint health. Deficiency in boron can lead to hormonal imbalances, increasing the risk of joint pain and degeneration, particularly in postmenopausal women who are already at higher risk for arthritis. Research has demonstrated that boron inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that promote inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, boron helps alleviate the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Boron also enhances the action of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and joints. It has been shown to aid in the synthesis of collagen, a key component of cartilage and connective tissues.
Research suggests that boron helps promote cartilage regeneration, reducing joint damage and improving mobility in arthritis patients. This makes it especially beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, where cartilage breakdown is a primary concern. Boron helps maintain bone density, which is important in the prevention of osteoporotic fractures and the slowing of joint degeneration. This is particularly useful for people suffering from postmenopausal arthritis, where oestrogen depletion accelerates bone loss and joint damage. A 2011 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that boron supplementation significantly reduced inflammation and improved bone strength in individuals with osteoarthritis. Participants who took boron supplements showed notable improvements in joint pain and stiffness, with a reduction in inflammatory markers. A 2013 study published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology demonstrated that boron intake helped increase the effectiveness of calcium and magnesium in the body, improving bone health and reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis. The study found that individuals with arthritis who supplemented with boron experienced less pain and greater joint mobility. In a 2015 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it was concluded that boron supplementation could improve the functional ability of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The study reported that patients who took boron regularly had reduced joint swelling and pain, contributing to improved quality of life.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption, which is key for maintaining bone density and strength. It also plays a crucial role in modulating the immune system, which is particularly relevant in autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to several issues that contribute to the development or exacerbation of arthritis. It still shocks me in 2024 that people not living in hot countries are not supplementing with it. Whatever you health state you should take it. Anyway in this specific point Vitamin D exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by regulating the immune system and reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. In rheumatoid arthritis, Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to reduce inflammation, joint swelling, and pain. It is crucial for the maintenance of bone density and the health of cartilage. Adequate levels of Vitamin D help prevent bone loss and ensure that calcium is effectively used in building strong, healthy bones. By enhancing calcium absorption, Vitamin D strengthens bones and helps maintain cartilage health, reducing the risk of degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis. Vitamin D helps to regulate the immune system, preventing it from becoming overactive and attacking healthy tissues. Supplementing can help normalise immune function, potentially reducing joint damage and the severity of autoimmune flare-ups. Vitamin D also plays a role in muscle function, and deficiencies are linked to muscle weakness and pain, which can exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis. Correcting a deficiency can improve muscle strength, reduce stiffness, and help individuals maintain better joint function.
Numerous studies have examined the effects of vitamin D on arthritis, providing compelling evidence for its potential benefits in managing the condition: A 2013 study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that low levels of vitamin D were associated with increased pain and severity of rheumatoid arthritis. The study concluded that vitamin D supplementation could help reduce disease activity and improve overall function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In a 2014 meta-analysis of studies on osteoarthritis, researchers found that individuals with adequate levels of vitamin D had less pain and improved joint function compared to those who were deficient in the vitamin. The study recommended vitamin D supplementation as part of the management of osteoarthritis, particularly for patients at risk of deficiency. A 2017 study published in The Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that vitamin D levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were significantly lower than in the general population. The study suggested that increasing vitamin D levels could reduce inflammatory markers and improve the clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. A 2019 study in The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology concluded that vitamin D supplementation led to significant reductions in pain and stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. The study highlighted that vitamin D not only reduced pain but also improved functional mobility in patients with joint degeneration. There will be endless more studies proving its effectiveness if they conduct them.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV has a long standing as a natural remedy for arthritis, I recommend the book by Margaret Hills a nurse in England in the 1960s cured herself, documented and wrote about it, then practiced in natural health opening a clinic. Arthritis was her challenge, Apple Cider Vinegar was her solution on the journey. Forgotten the name of the book but sure you can find it. By balancing the body’s pH and reducing systemic inflammation, ACV can help ease discomfort in the joints. Despite its acidic nature, ACV has an alkalising effect on the body once metabolised. Many believe that an overly acidic environment in the body contributes to inflammation, and ACV may help restore balance, reducing joint stiffness and improving overall mobility in arthritis sufferers. It contains key minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals are essential for maintaining bone density and joint health. Potassium helps reduce fluid retention around the joints, which can reduce swelling, while magnesium promotes muscle relaxation and reduces tension in the body. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones, which can help prevent the progression of osteoarthritis and support overall joint health. A 2010 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that apple cider vinegar, when combined with other treatments like honey, had a positive impact on inflammation. A 2012 study in Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition investigated the alkalising effects of apple cider vinegar. The study concluded that ACV can balance the body’s pH, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility. A 2013 study in Food & Function confirmed that antioxidants in vinegar, including polyphenols, can help reduce oxidative stress. Since oxidative stress is known to accelerate joint degeneration and pain in arthritis, these findings suggest that ACV could provide a protective effect on joint tissues.
Krill Oil: I won't explain why again, as it is simply providing the Omegas I mentioned in food.
DMSO: I will be writing an extensive article on DMSO, one part of it will cover its use in freedom over arthritis. It has the ability to penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues, including inflamed joints. Deep penetration helps deliver its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. It enhances microcirculation, which can help improve blood flow to the affected area. Better circulation helps deliver essential nutrients to damaged tissues, accelerating healing and reducing inflammation.
Elderberry: A Deep Purple solution I mentioned it in the purple foods part.
Joint & Mobility Support: Our own product that features the active, fully soluble forms of Glucosamine Sulphate, Glucosamine KCl, and Chondroitin Sulphate. Additionally, it includes Molybdenum and collagen-boosting flavanols (soluble OPCs) that are unique to this joint health supplement, setting it apart from other products on the market. Worth considering in your program.
Magnesium Oil Spray: Spray this into affected areas, it may sting at first be careful. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that higher magnesium intake was associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation. Research published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested that magnesium supplementation could reduce pain and improve physical function in older adults with chronic pain conditions, including arthritis. Another study found that topical magnesium therapy improved muscle and joint pain in patients with fibromyalgia, a condition with overlapping symptoms with arthritis.
Ancient Remedies & Modern Developments
Juniper Berries / Golden Raisins Soaked in Gin: This is an age-old folk remedy that has gained popularity over the years for alleviating arthritis symptoms involves soaking golden raisins in gin. This home treatment has been praised by many individuals who claim it helps relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. The key ingredient is golden raisins, made from seedless, white-fleshed grapes. Take a box of white raisins, place them in a glass container, and cover with gin. Seal with a tight lid. Eat 10 raisins daily. It helps reduce pain and swelling from arthritis. It also alleviates shoulder pain and overall body pain caused by arthritis. The gin-soaked raisins works in my opinion because of the sulphur content in raisins, so although this ancient hack is good, perhaps it's even more proof why MSM Organic Sulphur works. Why not try this though, sadly our MSM is expensive, we've never made much money on it. Anyway back to the raisins, the grapes used for golden raisins undergo mechanical drying and are then treated with sulphur dioxide (SO₂), which preserves their golden colour and prevents oxidation and caramelisation. Many holistic practitioners attribute the effectiveness of this remedy to the juniper berries used in gin production. Juniper berries possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may enhance the pain-relieving effects when combined with the sulphur in raisins. The combination of these ingredients could potentially help reduce inflammation, thus easing arthritis discomfort. Gin is a distilled grain alcohol flavoured with juniper berries. Avoid the cheapest gins, which may use artificial juniper flavouring instead of genuine juniper berries. For best results, choose a mid-range gin that uses natural ingredients to ensure the presence of beneficial juniper compounds.
Cinnamon & Raw Honey: I outlined in opening part of this Guide why Cinnamon works and for some reason it works even better with honey. I think it is a remedy from India for arthritis. Research conducted at the Copenhagen University observed the mixture taken for a week, 73 patients of 200 were totally relieved of pain; after a month, almost all the patients who could not walk, started walking without pain. Take it twice daily with a cup of hot water 1 tablespoon of Real, Organic, Raw Honey and 1 teaspoon of Ceylon Cinnamon. Take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and don't eat for an hour afterward. Last thing at night.
Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Leading experts suggest that low-dose naltrexone (LDN) offers significant potential in the treatment of millions of individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases, central nervous system disorders, and even serious conditions. This treatment is highly affordable and appears to be largely free of harmful side effects. Naltrexone, a generic drug, is traditionally used as an opioid antagonist to treat drug and alcohol addiction, typically at doses ranging between 50 mg to 300 mg. It has been FDA-approved for over 20 years. However, recent research indicates that at much lower doses (3 to 4.5 mg), naltrexone exhibits immunomodulating properties, potentially treating cancer and a variety of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s, fibromyalgia, and Crohn’s disease, to name a few. One physician, Dr Jacquelyn McCandless, has even observed positive effects of LDN on children with autism. In a recent interview, Dr Burton M. Berkson, MD, shared remarkable results using LDN to treat patients with autoimmune conditions. Despite its potential, awareness of LDN among physicians is minimal, largely because pharmaceutical companies do not promote it. At a cost of £10 to £30 per month, the profit margins are negligible for big pharma companies, resulting in a lack of support from sales representatives.
Over the past two decades, research has increasingly shown that endorphins (the body’s natural opioids) play a crucial role in immune system function. According to a review in the New England Journal of Medicine, opioids influence the development and activity of various immune cells, such as T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. As outlined on the website: The Low Dose Naltrexone, taking LDN at bedtime blocks opioid receptors for a few hours during the night. This is believed to stimulate the immune system by increasing the production of metenkephalin and endorphins, thus enhancing immune function. Contrary to the belief that LDN lacks scientific backing, there have been several studies on its safety and effectiveness.
Clinical trials report that LDN is generally well-tolerated, with only mild side effects such as temporary insomnia and vivid dreams. However, certain precautions are advised: Patients taking opioid-based medications, such as morphine, Percocet, or codeine, should not use LDN until these drugs have completely cleared from their system. Those on thyroid hormone replacement for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may need to start with a very low dose (1.5 mg) due to the possibility of rapid improvements that may require a reduction in thyroid medication. Individuals on immunosuppressants due to organ transplants are advised against LDN, as it may counteract the effects of their medications. I got this information years ago from their website and LDNers.org, both of which offer extensive resources. I think if you or anyone you know suffers from any of the autoimmune diseases mentioned, exploring the potential benefits of LDN might be worthwhile.
What to Avoid
Now I covered Processed food, excess sugar, seed oils and processed drinks. Here I'm going to cover other things you need to see less of in your life.
Fluoride: Most tap waters, standard toothpaste and processed food. Fluoride accumulates in bones and joints over time. Excessive exposure can lead to joint calcification, causing stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility—symptoms commonly associated with arthritis. In areas with high levels of fluoride in the water supply, people have been found to develop skeletal fluorosis. It has been shown to trigger an inflammatory response in the body. Chronic exposure can lead to low-grade inflammation, which may contribute to the onset or worsening of autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. By increasing oxidative stress and inflammation, fluoride can exacerbate symptoms in people who already have arthritis, leading to increased joint pain and swelling. Studies suggest that excessive fluoride intake can alter the structure of collagen, the main protein in cartilage and connective tissues. This can weaken cartilage, making it less effective at cushioning joints. Its impact on bone metabolism can also contribute to bone brittleness and joint degeneration, further exacerbating arthritis symptoms. In regions like India and China, where water fluoride levels exceed recommended limits, skeletal fluorosis is prevalent. Research on animals has shown that fluoride can accumulate in the bones, leading to bone thickening, joint calcification, and cartilage damage. A study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health highlighted that individuals in areas with higher fluoride levels reported more joint pain and stiffness.
Environmental Modern Day Toxins: Certain medications, such as birth control pills, have been linked in some cases to the development of conditions like lupus. Environmental pollutants are another significant concern for individuals predisposed to autoimmune diseases. Exposure to second-hand smoke, food additives, airborne chemicals, jet fuel fumes, ultraviolet radiation, and other environmental toxins are among the triggers believed to contribute to the onset of these conditions. Even everyday products like hairspray and lipstick have occasionally been identified as potential triggers.
Seed Oils: I want to make this hit home. Chronic consumption of omega-6-rich seed oils has been shown to alter immune function, potentially exacerbating autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Excess omega-6 fatty acids can lead to an increase in arachidonic acid, which is a precursor to inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This can result in persistent joint inflammation and pain. Research indicates that a diet high in seed oils may contribute to immune dysregulation, making the body more prone to autoimmune attacks on its own tissues, including the joints.
Excess Sugars: Refined sugars, such as those found in sweets, soft drinks, pastries, and processed foods, can trigger the body to release pro-inflammatory cytokines. These molecules are known to promote inflammation, which can worsen conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Sugar rapidly increases blood glucose levels, leading to a surge in insulin production. Over time, high insulin levels can cause chronic inflammation, contributing to joint pain and tissue damage. When sugar molecules react with proteins or fats in the body, they form compounds known as Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). These compounds accumulate in the tissues, causing oxidative stress and inflammation.
AGEs are particularly harmful to cartilage, which cushions the joints. When cartilage is damaged, it can lead to stiffness, pain, and reduced joint function, all of which are hallmark symptoms of arthritis. High sugar intake, especially from fructose (a type of sugar found in fruit juices, soft drinks, and some processed foods), can increase levels of uric acid in the blood. Elevated uric acid can lead to the formation of crystals in the joints, causing a type of arthritis known as gout, which is characterised by sudden, severe joint pain and swelling.
Gout attacks can be triggered by a diet high in sugary foods and drinks, as fructose metabolism produces uric acid as a byproduct. Chronic consumption of sugar can suppress the immune system and impair its ability to regulate inflammation. For people with autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, a weakened immune system can exacerbate flare-ups and joint pain. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in women. Research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism demonstrated that reducing sugar intake could significantly lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation often elevated in individuals with arthritis. Another study in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases showed that diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can worsen systemic inflammation, which is closely linked to joint pain and degeneration. If you are suffering with Arthritis why limit Sugar, just cut it out, don't waste your time being in pain.
Closing Program / Plan of Action
You may be feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of information I provided you with, but I’m here to streamline the process for you. Below, you'll find a recommended program along with guidance to help you navigate your journey effectively.
- Eat Clean, Whole Organic foods especially the stuff mentioned
- Sleep well, but get exercise during the day ideally 30 minutes.
- Focus on Happiness & Peace over conflicts, let go of negativity. Be of service to others
Take...
Vitamin D3: Get Sunshine and or take 10,000iu capsules a few days a week at least.
MSM Organic Sulphur: Take 4-8g twice daily, empty stomach, for a few months, break, repeat.
Boron: Take a 3-5mg capsule once daily with food.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Take a tablespoon in water or neat up to twice daily.
Krill Oil: If not enough Omegas in diet add 2 soft gels daily.
Curcumin: Choose Liposomal (Stronger than Turmeric) 200mg daily.
Bone Broth: Put some powder hot water or make your own.
Our Joint & Mobility Support Supplement: Consider taking 3 caps twice daily for 2 months.
All of the above we have at Ancient Purity. There are certainly more options available to you, but I want to avoid overwhelming you. Remember, you also have the hacks I mentioned earlier. Acupuncture can be incredibly beneficial as well. Start with small changes and see how you respond. Set your intentions on improving; focus on what works for you, and feel free to adjust your approach by adding or subtracting methods as needed. Each of us is incredibly unique. I'll be returning periodically to refine this specific guide as necessary. For now be well, Blessed Be, Tom.
