Restricted diet can ease arthritis pain
DEAR DR. GOTT: Ten years ago, I was diagnosed with palindromic rheumatoid arthritis. I didn’t want to take the medication, so I did a lot of reading. The first information I found is to avoid foods that worsen the condition. They’re usually the ones you eat every day and think you can’t live without. Corn was a major one for me, and it’s in many processed foods. I also found that alternating food families so that each was eaten only once every four days brought me relief. It takes some work to figure out what foods are in the same family, but there are sources.
I haven’t had any problems for over 10 years and no longer have to be so careful about alternating foods. I mentioned this to someone I knew who was having rheumatoid arthritis problems, too. He also found relief by avoiding the foods and drinks he consumed most often.
I mentioned this to my rheumatologist, and he said there were experiments being done with food and the condition. I don’t know what they have discovered, but I do know this has been helpful to me. I hope it can help others.
DEAR READER: Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis disease is inflammation around joints, commonly affecting the fingers and knees. Pain often appears in two or three joints and might last up to three days and can be severe. Oddly, it can cease as quickly as an episode begins. The condition is characterized by joint stiffness, inflammation, warmth and pain.
Anti-inflammatory medicines may be ineffective for pain control; however, a physician may choose to prescribe methotrexate or hydroxychloroquine for better control.
Alternative control includes hydrotherapy, herbals and a proper diet. The consumption of meat and dairy products is acceptable when combined with fruits, vegetables and an appropriate amount of water. When consumed inappropriately, dairy products can cause bloating, diarrhea and stomach pain. Stress and smoking can be detrimental to the condition.
A diet for those afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis should be restricted to no more than 2,000 calories daily with fruits, vegetables and protein being the foundation. If a primary-care physician cannot get a patient started in the right direction, the patient should ask for a referral to a rheumatologist and dietitian who can.
Readers who are interested in additional information can request my Health Reports “Managing Chronic Pain” and “Medical Specialists.” Simply send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 U.S. check or money order for each report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s).
DEAR DR. GOTT: After 12 years of professional care and trying many home remedies, I began taking cod-liver-oil capsules daily, merely as a supplement. A month later, my dermatitis was gone and has not returned.
DEAR READER: Cod-liver oil is rich in omega-3 and other fatty acids, as well as vitamins A and D. It is purported to prevent arthritis, cancer and kidney problems, reduce muscle aches and pains, lower cholesterol readings and reduce type I diabetes in children.
The usual dose is 1 to 2 teaspoons daily. When it’s taken in excess, high blood pressure can result. As you have discovered, the product is available in several forms, including the easy-to-take capsules to which you refer. And it certainly appears you have found the proper dose for treating your dermatitis. Perhaps other readers can benefit from this useful tip. Thank you for writing.