Rheumatoid Arthritis:Relief from natural sources

[PigPen]

I have recently discovered that I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. My dad has it, as well as my maternal grandmother. That leaves some genetic predisposition for me to suffer from it as well. For those who don't know, it is an autoimmune disease. Basically, a healthy body will attack its own joints and they start to deteriorate. This causes pain, stiffness and inflammation of joints. I have been searching for natural and homeopathic remedies as I have been on the steroids used to treat RA before, and I'm not very fond of the side effects. Talking to my grandmother, the one thing she uses on a regular basis, is raw honey and apple cider vinegar with "The Mother". One tablespoon of each in 8 ounces of water everyday. While it's not the best tasting drink in the world, I do notice a difference. Especially on the days I don't remember to drink it. While doing some research on the internet I also ran across info on other herbs which contribute to relief. They say Ginger and Turmeric are particularly effective. In fact, there is a product which includes both called Zyflamend. Higher intakes of fish oil are also extremely beneficial. Aerobic exercise and some light resistance training are also good. Aerobic exercise especially in a heated pool. Some other diet modifications are recommended as they can make the inflammation worse. Coffee for example. It will be tough to cut out my daily cup or two of Joe, but if it helps I am all for it. Also recommended is cutting out sugars aside from the natural ones. Once again, a difficult task I think, but worth the effort. I have decided I wll modify my diet and join a gym which I know has a pool after the first of the year. Feeling the need to tell someone else besides my family here, I knew I could count on my SLY brothers and sisters.

Thanks, I will also update everyone on my progress and what seems to work and what is not very effective.

[Robmeister]

A guy I sorta grew up with had RA in part by his immune system getting screwed up by silver (amalgum) fillings.  Do you have silver fillings?  You may or may not know that they emit mercury into yer system.

I haven't spoken to this fella since like '99, but he might have some valuable input.  He was into the natural route too and--by now--has been at it for 8 or 9 years.

PM me if you want his number or somethin'

[schro]

Sorry to hear the diagnosis, PP. I personally don't have any experience with RA, so I can't help ya there.
Still, the exercise recommendations can never hurt, RA or no RA.

Hang in there!

[Paul]

Man sorry to hear about this Pig...have a close friend from college with it and know it can make for some uncomfortable times.  I have heard about honey being a good immune booster as well...seems if you can get honey from the area in which you live it has the greatest effect as the flowers, allergens, etc are what your body is most used to.  Good luck bro and keep us updated.

[schro]

Not to make light of RA, but a few years out of college I dated a girl that had RA. She said "the pill" was very good at alleviating the pain associated with RA. I have no idea if she was full of BS, but maybe that'll work for you Pig. At least it will eliminate the chance of you getting pregnant  .

[PigPen]

Thanks Meister, I'll let ya know. When I posted this, I was drinking my honey and vinegar, and I already feel better. HUGE difference.

Schro, yes the exercise definitely will not hurt. I could stand to lose a few inches around the gut. Swimming is some of the best aerobic exercise, bar none.

Paul, the lady that suggested the honey and vinegar to my grandmother confirmed what you said about the honey being an immunity booster. It's a natural antibiotic.

One reason I am waiting until the first of the year, is the tasty food we always have around the holidays. It will be easier to stick with after the first of the year.

Appreciate the support fellas.

[PigPen]

Not getting pregnant is always a plus Schro!!!

[herronm]

PigPen,  I'm sorry to hear about your RA.  If it were me, I'd go with Grandma's remedy.  There are too many side effects on most of the newer drugs.

[PigPen]

Couldn't agree with you more Max. As I said before, there is definitely a difference when using it. I still have some pain, but not nearly like I do when not using it. I'm also going to try and find the Zyflamend. One of our customer's owns a natural foods store, and I bet they'll have it.

Thanks again for the concern and support guys.