Foods high in vitamins C & D, like broccoli & fish, can slow progression of arthritis.

Arthritis can happen at any age. Sore joints begin to limit the activities you enjoy. The knuckles on your fingers seem swollen, your knees and ankles seem to ache a lot, your back hurts when you wake up in the morning...

For most, symptoms of arthritis come as you age. You may be thinking about starting an aspirin a day routine or other medications to ease the aches. Stop in and see your health care professional before you begin any medications and while you're there ask about how your diet can help keep arthritis at bay.

Vitamins and minerals have been shown to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. Recent research is also showing that vitamins may also play a role in protecting us against problems related to arthritis.

According to data from the Framingham Heart Study – an ongoing study of more than 5,000 men and women from Framingham, Mass., that started in 1948 – people with more vitamin C in their diets had higher bone density. Low bone density is a major risk factor for fractures. Other studies have found that higher bone density means stronger bones, as well as a reduced risk of osteoarthritis progression and even prevention of knee pain. This finding came from a study of 25,000 people conducted by British researchers at the University of Manchester and Cambridge University.

Vitamin C is needed to make collagen, which makes up cartilage. Cartilage cushions bones, and not having enough leads to deterioration and osteoarthritis. Vitamin C is thought to play a role in treating rheumatoid arthritis because it battles free radicals that injure cartilage.

Studies have also shown that osteoarthritis sufferers who took beta-carotene daily exhibited a decreased progression of this disease. People suffering from arthritic knees who added vitamin D to their diets were less likely to suffer from arthritis in the future. Vitamin D is needed for the proper absorption of calcium. If you're concerned that your diet doesn't provide enough vitamins and minerals, consider the benefits of a daily multivitamin supplement as nutritional insurance.

More about arthritis & nutrition around the Web:

Nutrition and Rheumatoid Arthritis - Johns Hopkins guide to vitamin and mineral deficiencies in RA patients with tips on suggested foods and supplements, and the benefits of Omega-3 fish oils with related references.

Nutrition and Arthritis - The Role of Vitamins and Other Nutrients - About.com guide with information on an array of vitamins, minerals, foods and nutritional supplements to treat arthritis pain and symptoms.

Related Chiff.com Nutrition Articles:

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.

also see in Diseases -> Arthritis