Archive for June, 2009
Arthritis affects many people and it is a very painful disease that attacks the joints. It can occur in one joint or in several joints at a time. The areas that are most effected include the hands, knees, elbows, back, neck and shoulders.
There are several “miracle drug” remedies available that promise to cure arthritis but most are unsafe and others simply do not work. Many people opt to cure arthritis naturally. Many natural cures are safe and effective and do not have any or very little side effects unlike many synthetic drug therapies available which often have many side effects.
Supplements are also a great way to cure arthritis. Some of the best supplements include glucosamine and chondroitin which are two compounds found in healthy joints. Studies have shown that these two supplements help to lessen pain and help improve mobility. They can be taken in combination or separately. They come in liquid, pill and powder form which can be mixed with water or juice.
Herbs have also been proven to work in some people as a cure for arthritis. Ginger is one of the most popular herbs that has relieved arthritis pain in some people. Other herbs that may help relieve symptoms of arthritis include feverfew, nettles and meadowsweet.
Diet is also important when trying to cure arthritis. Certain foods can trigger arthritis flare ups such as milk and cheese, tomatoes, potatoes and bell peppers. A healthy diet will help prevent arthritis which includes nutritious foods such as omega-3 fatty acids such as sardines, salmon and mackerel. They are anti-inflammatory and help relieve arthritis symptoms such as stiffness and painful joints.
In addition to a good diet exercise is also important when combating arthritis. Some of the best exercises to help cure arthritis include swimming, yoga and stretching exercises which all help to keep the joints healthy.
Unfortunately, some people seem to be born with food allergies. Perhaps this is the baby who is fussy from the very beginning because of a whey protein allergy in mother’s milk or formula. Other times, children seem to develop them at a young age while eating a food for the first time, like peanut butter. Sometimes adults develop allergies out of the blue with no obvious trigger.
Many children will outgrow some of their allergies by early adolescence. Here are some common allergies found in children and/or infants:
- dairy
- egg
- wheat
- soy
- peanuts
- seafood
Some children have an intolerance to some things, though not an actual allergy, for example, to the lactose in dairy products.
Some common allergies seen in adults:
- dairy
- peanuts
- wheat
- seafood
Adults may also have an intolerance to some things, such as lactose and/or wheat gluten.
How do you recognize a potential food allergy? Here are the signs:
- Skin reactions, i.e. hives, visible redness, itching, red ring around the mouth.
- Breathing problems, i.e. wheezing, coughing, breathing loudly.
- Anaphylactic shock, i.e. flushed appearance, sweating, trouble breathing, vomiting, and/or diarrhea.
It is important to take the next step and get medical advice if you or a loved one has the signs of a food allergy. Getting tested so you know ahead of time exactly what it is that you are allergic to can also help avoid a potential life threatening situation.
