Millions of people suffer from some form of arthritis. Because arthritis is commonly believed to be incurable, that standard medical response has been simply prescribe medication to reduce the symptoms. Substantial evidence, however, now shows that the pain and disability caused by arthritis can be alleviated, and even prevented, though diet, nutritional supplementation, environmental medicine, bodywork, stress reduction, and other alternative therapies.

"Dietary practices have a major impact on arthritis. In fact, if you eat the typical American diet, it could be making your arthritis worse", - say Ellen Kanhi, Ph.D., R.N., of new Your City. "Among the offenders are saturated fats (which occur in cooking oils and fried food), white flour and sugar, red meat, ham, chemical addictives, yeast and milk and dairy products. These foods can increase inflammation, invoke allergies, and interfere with hormone production, cellular integrity, and the function and mobility of the joints." According to Dr. Braly, fatty meats, eggs, margarine, shrtening, and dairy products should be dramatically cut down or eliminated from the diet.

Many researchers believe a proper balance of vitamins and minerals is essential in the treatment of arthritis. Both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, vitamin C helps repair and maintain healthy connective tissue. It is essential for collagen production and the maintenance of the joint lining, helps tissue repair, and reices the bruising and swelling often associated with arthritis. Vitamins A, B1, B6, E, and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) have also proven effective in treating and preventing arthritis. Vitamin D us a fat-soluble nutrient, considered to be both a vitamin and a hormone. It controls the absorption of calcium and phosphorus used in bone formation.

Other dietary supplements that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect important for arthritis prevention and treatment include boron, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, pantothenic acid, and sulfur. Bee pollen, riyal jelly, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and evening primrose, especially among rheumatoid arthritis. All these supplements, though, should be taken only under supervision by a qualified health professional.

Calcium and Magnesium are also vital nutrients in the fight against arthritis. Calcium is essential for bone, joint, muscle, and ligament health, while magnesium is necessary for calcium's proper incorporation into bone, by preventing a buildup of calcium in the soft tissues and joints. Most people, though, consume too much calcium and not enough magnesium. High protein diets, which are common for many Americans, contain a lot of phosphorus, which binds up magnesium and make it unavailable for the body's tissue.