Role of Foods in Detoxification Programs for Arthritis
When we hear the word detoxification, the thought of drug or alcohol rehabilitation usually enters our minds. But this process of purification is not only confined to those areas. If you're one of the millions of people worldwide suffering from arthritis, you should know that there are detoxification programs for arthritis and that it would do you well to learn more about them. Don't let any uninformed thoughts about detoxification scare you. In the long run, it will do you good.
Detoxification programs for arthritis are centered on the cleansing of the human body through the elimination of toxins to which we are exposed everyday. It's become a habit for many of us to partake of convenience food or fast food, which is full of saturated fat, refined carbohydrates and sugar. Our body's mineral supply becomes imbalanced and we don't absorb as much nutrients as we should. To help resolve this problem, we should cut down on junk food and eat more whole foods, which act as a natural detoxifier. Healthy food sources that should be part of the diet include dark green and leafy vegetables, whole grain baked products, nuts, and seafood.
Certain types of arthritis, such as gout, occur or become aggravated because the kidneys are not able to excrete surplus amounts of uric acid. Too much uric acid will cause the formation of urate crystals, which become lodged in the joints and cause pain and inflammation. Sometimes overexposure to lead can cause renal problems, and this is why taking in a detoxifier is necessary. Foods that have the ability to cleanse the kidneys and the bowels include herbs like licorice, dandelion, chickweed, cinnamon, and fennel.
Another natural product available as a dietary supplement is gaining widespread popularity because of its reputation as a natural detoxifier. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a source of sulfur that is needed by the body to stay healthy. It's classified as a food, not a drug. It is anti-allergenic and you can take it in conjunction with pharmaceutical arthritis medications. Also, some studies show that MSM is so effective in reducing pain and inflammation in arthritic patients that they are able to rely less on painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine to manage their symptoms.
There is a wealth of information available on detoxification programs for arthritis. If you already have arthritis, ask your rheumatologist or nutritionist about the best foods to eat and the right dietary supplements you can take for pain and inflammation relief.
