Ankle Arthritis Article
Using Vitamin C to Treat Arthritis
Arthritis most often affects the elderly and can be a very debilitating illness. It causes a painful slow degeneration of the joints.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form and it usually affects the joints, such as ankles, knees, wrists, hands and hips. The pain associated with this illness is caused by damaged cartilage which cannot be replaced. Cartilage is the padding for the joints and if it breaks down, the bones begin rubbing together which causes pain. Think of squeaky wheels without grease rubbing against each other. The gears eventually fail because they wear out.
Research shows that approximately 85% of adults by the age of 85 will suffer from some form of arthritis. Physicians are recommending that you take a preventative approach while you are still young and healthy to prevent it from happening to you.
Just like anything else, diet and exercise are very important. Physicians up till now, believed that osteoarthritis was a natural derivative of age and that it could not be prevented. However, recent research proves otherwise.
Studies have shown that Vitamin C and diet play a key role in the treatment of osteoarthritis. It provides a protective layer against the damage that can be caused by joint inflammation.
Bone loss and cartilage damage are the underlying causes of osteoarthritis which occur as the body ages. Vitamin C regenerates cartilage so it maintains its elasticity and cushions bones. Think of it as a way of rejuvenating your body and adding a layer of protection.
Research studies show that Vitamin C also regenerates collagen which helps the body repair damage to cartilage.
Scientists studied the diets of people who had osteoarthritis and their intake of Vitamin C. It was determined that those who took more than 200 milligrams a day were less likely to suffer more severe ill effects of the disease than those who took less than 120 milligrams a day.
The comparison of 120 milligrams a day, which is the necessary allotment, is approximately 2 oranges a day.
The authors of a nutrition book called, “You: The Owners manual” recommend up to 1200 milligrams of Vitamin C a day. They further state that this can be obtained through diet and supplements.
It needs to be taken in moderation however, as it can be counter productive. If you take more than 2500 milligrams a day, it can increase your risk of developing some form of arthritis.
A holistic approach to the illness is to drink 8 ounces of fruit juice a day which is a natural preventative measure. Also, fresh fruits such as apples, oranges, and some vegetables are rich in Vitamin C.
We all want to live long healthy lives, and your diet can play a key role in keeping your body youthful and full of energy. It is important to remember what you eat will affect how you feel. Consider Vitamin C as a lubricant for the joints which will help them remain young and full of life, just like you!
