Omega-3 fatty acids have been well documented for their ability to reduce inflammation. With strong anti-inflammation properties, it makes sense that fish oils have been touted as the next big thing in arthritis care. But do these oils really work? Are they a cure for that persistent arthritis pain?
A lot of alternative medicine therapies,are really "folklore" and quite often there is not enough scientific evidence to conclude if they relieve the symptoms; this is as true for fish oil and arthritis, as much as for any thing else. However, early research is encouraging.
Recent clinical trials and laboratory studies have concluded that fish oil, because of its omega-3 structure, may be helpful in reducing the feelings of stiff morning muscles and tender joints that so many arthritis sufferers experience. Researchers have not yet concluded the appropriate dosage for maximum effectiveness, nor how long treatment should last.
However, researchers have also discovered possible side effects of fish oil supplementation. In some cases, fish oil has been shown to increase the risk of the blood's ability to clot. For some people, consuming fish oil may affect the time it takes for their blood to clot. This can be an important issue in cases where the patient is taking medications that affect their blood.
Fish oil supplementation has also been shown to interact with blood pressure medications. Apparently, taking fish oil supplements while taking high blood pressure medications may cause their blood pressure to lower significantly.
There is one more likely risk of supplementing with fish oil and that is: that fish has been found to often contain noteworthy levels of contaminants. And more over fish are sometimes been found to be hazardous because of their mercury level. Taking fish oils as a supplement could be a risk, above all to young children, and women who are pregnant or nursing. Fish with the utmost levels of mercury include swordfish, tuna, king mackerel, tilefish, and shark.
To avoid these risks, make sure to find a low-mercury fish. Finding this information can often be difficult, and may involve calling the manufacturer to ask about mercury levels.
The good news: beside these risks, consuming fish oils generally causes very few side effects. The side effects that do exist are relatively minor, and may consist of stomach disturbances and gas.
Now we come to the perimeter of treatment for arthritis: Glucosamine and Chondroitin.Both of these are on the edge of treatment because they have not been proven by medical reseach.The quwstion is why then have these two dietary supplement been in cludeed in arthirits treament
The said boffins have done some work on these two supplements with animals and it has been found that anti-inflammatory properties are present in both.
Both of these supplements are becoming very popular among arthritis sufferers despite the lack of evidence.Indeed my own doctor told me not to waste my time or money taking Glucosamine and Chondrotin but I would not be without them.I take them with Aloe Vera in a drink called Freedom ( see my site www.aloeveraexpress.com for details )
The question, as always is : do they really work? Well here is some information to help you decide if these supplements are right for you at this time.
What is Glucosamine?
Its full name is Glucosamine sulfate, and it is a natural substance that is found in the joints. Beside your own joint fluid, Glucosamine can also be found in certain sea creatures, including the shells of crabs, lobsters, and shrimps. Scientists can also create Glucosamine in the laboratory. Our bodies create our own steady supply of Glucosamine that it uses to create and repair lost cartilage. Cartilage is important because it keeps bones from rubbing against each other and absorbs the shock and force of the impact.
This arthritis supplement is generally well tolerated. However, side effects can occur. The most commonly reported side effects of glucosamine and include:Nausea/Diarrhea/heartburn/increased intestinal gas and constipation
Chondroitin sulfate is another natural substance found in the body. It prevents other body enzymes from degrading the building blocks of joint cartilage. The type sold in health-food stores and pharmacies is derived from animal products.
As for Chondroitin, it also appears to be safe for most people. Some medical researchers believe that Chondroitin can worsen pre-existing conditions, such as asthma, allergies, and certain cancers. The most common side effects of Chondroitin include nausea and stomach irritation.
Many doctors now think that Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements do lessen the pain of some people with arthritis. They agree that the supplements do appear safe, it is just to make sure you get quality products. Aloe Vera Freedom comes with a 60-day money back guarantee.
